Understand Existentialism: Teach Yourself

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Understand Existentialism breaks down a complex mode of thought into more manageable sections, enabling you to get to grips with the key concepts within the movement. Chart the origins and development of existentialism in a variety of disciplines and learn about significant thinkers from Sartre and De Beauvoir to Beckett and Camus. Whether you are a newcomer or more experienced student, this book will enhance your understanding of a brand of philosophy designed to give meaning and direction amongst the uncertainties of modern life.



Understand Existentialism includes:

Chapter 1: Introduction to existentialism

Chapter 2: Living dangerously: the roots of existentialism

Chapter 3: Between birth and death

Chapter 4: Existence precedes essence

Chapter 5: The authentic life

Chapter 6: Freedom, choice and responsibility

Chapter 7: The individual, art and society

Chapter 8: Existentialism and religion

Chapter 9: Authenticity and the absurd: the fiction of Sartre and Camus



Learn effortlessly with a new easy-to-read page design and interactive features:

Not got much time?

One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started.

Author insights

Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience.

Test yourself

Tests in the book and online to keep track of your progress.

Extend your knowledge

Extra online articles to give you a richer understanding of the subject.

Five things to remember

Quick refreshers to help you remember the key facts.

Try this

Innovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.