Soren Kierkegaard place strong emphasis on authenticity in his existential writing. He believed that authenticity was essential for individuals to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives. Here are some of his key thoughts on authenticity:
- Individual Subjectivity: Kierkegaard was deeply interested in individual subjectivity and the inner life of the individual. He argued that true authenticity involves recognizing and embracing one’s thoughts, feelings and personal experiences.
- Existential Despair: Kierkegaard believed that individuals often experience a sense of existential despair when they see the absurdity of life. Authenticity, in his view, requires acknowledging and confronting this despair rather than trying to escape from it through superficial distractions or conforming to societal norms.
- Freedom and Choice: Kierkegaard tied authenticity to the concept of freedom and choice. He argued that authentic individuals are those who make genuine, passionate choices in their lives, rather than simply adhering to external expectations. He believed that individuals should take full responsibility for the choices they make, even in the face of anxiety and absurdity.
- Three Stages of Existence: Kierkegaard proposed a developmental model of existence consisting of three stages: the aesthetic, the ethical, and the religious.
- Paradox and Faith: Kierkegaard saw an inherent paradox in the concept of faith. Authentic faith, in his view, required a leap beyond the rational. He referred to this as “the leap of faith,” which he believed was a way to transcend the limitations of reason.
- Inwardness: Kierkegaard stressed the importance of inwardness, which means turning one’s attention inward to explore one’s deepest values, beliefs, and passions. Authenticity, he insisted, begins with self-reflection and self-awareness.
Soren Kierkegaard was one of the first philosophers to focus on authenticity. He strongly believed that authentic individuals embrace their subjectivity, confront existential despair, make intentional choices, and, in some cases, make the leap of faith. His impact on existential philosophy continues to flourish, and for good reason.