What are the best ideas of Søren Kierkegaard?

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Foreword:

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Søren Kierkegaard is considered one of the most important figures in the development of existentialism, a philosophical movement that emphasizes the individual's subjective experience and freedom of choice. 

His ideas have had a profound influence on literature, theology, and psychology. 

In this article, we will explore some of the best ideas of Søren Kierkegaard and how they continue to shape our understanding of human existence.

• One of Kierkegaard's most notable ideas is the concept of "subjectivity." He believed that each individual is unique and that their subjective experience of the world is more important than objective truths. He argued that the objective world, as it is known to us through science and reason, is limited and cannot fully capture the complexity and richness of human existence. He believed that the individual's subjective experience is the only way to truly understand oneself and the world.

• Another important idea of Kierkegaard is the concept of "anxiety." He believed that human beings are inherently anxious, as they are constantly confronted with the possibility of making choices that will determine their fate. This anxiety is not only a source of stress and fear, but also a necessary condition for freedom and authenticity. According to Kierkegaard, it is only through facing our anxieties and making choices that we can truly become who we are.

• Kierkegaard also believed in the importance of religious faith. He argued that human beings cannot fully understand themselves or the world without a belief in God. However, he also believed that faith cannot be based solely on reason or evidence, but must be a leap of faith. He believed that true faith is a personal, subjective experience that cannot be fully explained or understood.

• Another key idea of Kierkegaard is the concept of "the aesthetic," which refers to the state of being absorbed in the pleasures of the senses. He believed that this state is superficial and ultimately unsatisfying, as it does not offer any deeper meaning or purpose. He contrasted the aesthetic with the "ethical" and "religious" states, which he believed are more meaningful and fulfilling.

• Kierkegaard also emphasized the importance of "the present moment." He believed that the past and the future are both irrelevant to the individual's existence and that the only thing that truly matters is the present moment. He argued that the present moment is the only time in which we can truly experience life and make choices that will shape our future.

• Finally, Kierkegaard believed that the ultimate goal of human existence is "the self." He argued that true self-understanding and self-fulfillment can only be achieved through a process of self-discovery, which involves facing one's anxieties, making choices, and taking responsibility for one's actions. He believed that the self is constantly evolving and that the individual must be willing to change and grow throughout their life.

In conclusion, the ideas of Søren Kierkegaard continue to be highly relevant today. His emphasis on the individual's subjective experience, the importance of religious faith, and the need to understand oneself and the world have had a profound influence on many different fields.

 His ideas have been used by psychologists, theologians, and literary scholars to help us understand the human condition and to find meaning in our lives. 

His idea of self-discovery and self-fulfillment is also a key concept that is still being used today in the field of self-help, personal development, and coaching. 

He is one of the most important thinkers of the 19th century and his ideas continue to shape our understanding of human existence.

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