Existentialism Is a Humanism

In this work, Sartre argues that existentialism is an optimistic and action-oriented philosophy that centers on moral responsibility and human interconnections.

He posits that 'existence precedes essence,' meaning humans are not defined by a pre-existing essence but by their choices and actions.

Sartre addresses criticisms of existentialism, arguing that it is not pessimistic but rather liberating, as it grounds human values and moral aims in human subjectivity itself.

He differentiates his existential humanism from other forms of humanism, emphasizing that humans are constantly in the process of creating their own values and purposes without relying on divine or external mandates.