Explore the fascinating intersection of faith and existentialism through Kierkegaard's lens. Delve into his critique of institutional Christianity and the struggle for genuine faith. Discover the paradox of Abraham's near sacrifice of Isaac and the tension between ethical norms and true faith. Understand the courage found in infinite resignation and love, and how desires shape our existential struggles. Lastly, witness the contrast between the Knight of Infinite Resignation and the Knight of Faith, revealing deeper connections to Nietzsche's thoughts.
Kierkegaard critiques the superficiality of modern skepticism, urging individuals to genuinely confront existential questions instead of settling for comforting traditions.
He emphasizes the paradox of faith as demonstrated by Abraham, who exemplifies true belief by trusting in divine promises despite apparent absurdity.
Kierkegaard distinguishes between the aesthetic and ethical life, advocating for a commitment to responsibilities that fosters authentic existence and personal growth.
Deep dives
Origins of Existentialism
Existentialism, although widely recognized in the 20th century, finds its roots in the 19th century, primarily through philosophers like Friedrich Nietzsche and Soren Kierkegaard. Despite their philosophical divide, both thinkers grapple with themes central to human existence and the subjective experience of being. Existentialism emerges as a reaction to Enlightenment and mechanistic views of the world, as individuals seek to define their essence and purpose amidst a reality that questions previously accepted creeds and doctrines. This inquiry emphasizes the importance of personal reflection and the challenge of determining truth independently, often leading to a confrontation with the absurdity of existence.
Kierkegaard's Leap of Faith
Kierkegaard explores the paradox of faith, particularly through the biblical figure of Abraham, who exemplified the ultimate leap of faith by preparing to sacrifice his son Isaac based on divine command. This act is not merely about relinquishing something valued but involves a deep commitment and trust in the divine promise despite the irrationality of the situation. Kierkegaard argues that true faith must confront and embrace the absurd, requiring a person to remain steadfast in hope even when faced with impossible demands. The struggle between infinite resignation and faith highlights the unique nature of true belief, which is neither easily attainable nor trivial.
Kierkegaard vs. Modern Skepticism
Kierkegaard critiques modern skepticism, which often results in a superficial engagement with doubt and a failure to genuinely confront existential questions that concern the human condition. He believes that many individuals masquerade as skeptics yet lack a true understanding of the depth of their doubt, often opting for comforting traditions over rigorous intellectual engagement. To Kierkegaard, the proper response to doubt involves a serious, yet active, exploration of faith, which should not be confused with mere acceptance of a comfortable worldview. This intellectual struggle is essential for truly understanding oneself and the nature of existence.
The Ethical and Aesthetic Life
Kierkegaard distinguishes between the aesthetic life, marked by distraction and pleasure-seeking, and the ethical life, which involves commitment to duties and responsibilities towards others. While the aesthetic can provide fleeting satisfaction, it ultimately leads to boredom and a sense of futility. The ethical life, in contrast, demands one acknowledge the reality of despair and choose a higher path of service to others, which may yield greater joy and fulfillment. This transformation from aesthetic to ethical is viewed as necessary for authentic existence and personal growth, guiding individuals towards a more meaningful way of living.
Kierkegaard's Critique of Christendom
Kierkegaard's later works reflect a critical stance toward Christendom, emphasizing the difference between true faith and the institutionalized version of Christianity prevalent in his time. He argues that much of contemporary practice has become a hollow expression of faith, devoid of the immediate, personal struggle that genuine belief should entail. By positioning himself as a 'missionary within Christendom,' he seeks to awaken Christians to the depth of their faith and the absurdity that must be embraced. Kierkegaard’s examination of faith, individuality, and societal norms fuels a critique of how religious belief can often be diluted into comfortable conformity rather than a transformative force in one’s life.
Among the 19th century forerunners of existentialism are Friedrich Nietzsche and Søren Kierkegaard. While there is much that divides these two thinkers - one is atheist and the other a Christian, one seeks faith in Fate and the other in God - there are some curious similarities between these two great minds. Kierkegaard is a Christian against Christianity, critiquing the easy optimism or sordid resignation that passed for the Christian faith during his time. Kierkegaard was driven by a desire to become a missionary within Christendom, to make everything harder, and push the ordinary Christian to see faith a paradoxical struggle. The Christian is called to live an absurd life, with impossible hopes, out of the knowledge that nothing is impossible with God. In this episode we discuss Kierkegaard's life, the background of his ideas during the first authorship, and the analysis of Abraham in Fear & Trembling.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode