Existentialism Is a Humanism

Interesting Facts

• The book is an adaptation of a public lecture delivered by the author in 1945.
• In the book, the author defends existentialism against criticism, asserting that it is a form of humanism.
• One of the key theses of the book is the assertion that «existence precedes essence», meaning that a person first exists and then defines their essence through actions.
• The author emphasizes each individual's responsibility for their actions and for creating their own essence.
• The book also discusses the concept of human «abandonment», where, according to the author, individuals are left without divine guidance and must find meaning in their own lives.
• The author criticizes both religious and materialistic philosophies for their attempts to impose external meanings and values on individuals.