Absurdism vs Existentialism
The concept of existentialism both in philosophy and writing started in the 19th century as a result of revolt against the then dominant school of thoughts. It believed that the experiences of an individual form the basis of any meaning of life. Post existentialism called forth “Absurdism” which incorporated many similarities with existentialism.
I suppose the starting point in any comparison revolves around the fact of existentialism focusing in on the principle of existence, and one of the first proponents of existentialism being Jean Sartre.
The most important principle of existentialism is that existence precedes essence. This implies that, before anything else, an individual is a living being who is conscious and independently thinking. Existentialists believe that people make conscious decisions in their lives and realize the value and meaning of their lives. Thus, people act out of their own free will and, as opposed to the basic human nature, people are themselves responsible for their acts.
Absurdism on the other hand came into existence, almost as an offshoot with the writings of those involved with European existentialism. Thus, the essay called “The Myth of Sisyphus”, written by Albert Camus, is credited as being the first authentic exposition in the school of absurdism that rejected some of the aspects of existentialism. Absurdism refers to the conflict between the human tendency to seek inherent value and meaning in life, and the human inability to find any in a purposeless, meaningless or chaotic and irrational universe. The universe and the human mind do not each separately cause the Absurd, but rather, the Absurd arises by the contradictory nature of the two existing simultaneously.
Obviously, there are many factors that can be argued as to the validity of either concept.
For example, if the world is regarded as in a chaotic state, (and by Harry it has felt so after the last 9 months), a sharp distinction can be discerned between atheists and those with a religious faith.
And what do we mean by that grand concept of “the meaning of life?” Not all are drawn to contemplating one’s navel in a cross-legged benign posture. We are all dealt different cards in life. The crux lies in both recognizing the opportunities and having the courage to act on them.
Personally, I have always found, (for whatever perverse reason), a sense of black humor in absurdism. It’s a bit like the Sicilian attitude to death: the visit of a boring uncle; the event of which must be still accepted with grace and good manners.