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Single Idea 20315

[filed under theme 23. Ethics / F. Existentialism / 6. Authentic Self ]

Full Idea

There is the being which in the phenomenality of existence is not but can be, ought to be, and therefore decides in time whether it is in eternity. This being is myself as 'Existenz'.

Gist of Idea

'Existenz' is the potential being, which I could have, and ought to have

Source

Karl Jaspers (Philosophy [1932], vol.2)

Book Ref

'Existentialism', ed/tr. Solomon,Robert C. [Modern Library 1974], p.135


A Reaction

This is quintessentially existentialist, in its claim that my mode of being could be quite other than it is. Personally I aim to fulfil the being I've got. Play the cards you have been dealt.


The 11 ideas from 'Philosophy'

Truth is what unites, and the profound truths create a community [Jaspers]
'Existenz' is the potential being, which I could have, and ought to have [Jaspers]
Freedom needs knowledge, the possibility of arbitrariness, and law [Jaspers]
I am aware that freedom is possible, and the freedom is not in theory, but in seeking freedom [Jaspers]
My freedom increases as I broaden my vision of possiblities and motives [Jaspers]
My helplessness in philosophising reveals my being, and begins its upsurge [Jaspers]
The struggle for Existenz is between people who are equals, and are utterly honest [Jaspers]
Once we grasp freedom 'from' things, then freedom 'for' things becomes urgent [Jaspers]
Mundane existence is general, falling under universals, but Existens is unique to individuals [Jaspers]
Every decision I make moves towards or away from fulfilled Existenz [Jaspers]
We want the correct grasp on being that is neither solipsism nor absorption in the crowd [Jaspers]