Jean-Paul Sartre: Freedom, Responsibility, and Existentialism

Jean-Paul Charles Aymard Sartre (1905–1980), a French philosopher, novelist, dramatist, and political figure,
profoundly influenced existentialist philosophy and French left-wing thought during the 1950s and 1960s. Known for
his works Existentialism and Humanism, Critique of Dialectical Reason, and novels like La Nausée (Nausea, 1938),
Sartre’s philosophy was shaped by thinkers such as Hegel and phenomenologists Husserl and Heidegger . Sartre's
existentialism emphasizes fundamental themes like existence preceding essence, the burden of freedom, and the
implications of responsibility in defining oneself through choices, a perspective that has remained influential.

Existence Precedes Essence

Central to Sartre’s existentialism is the idea that "existence precedes essence." Unlike objects that are created with a
specific purpose, such as a chair (whose essence is predetermined by its intended use), humans do not have a
predetermined essence or purpose. Sartre argues that people first exist without any inherent meaning or essence and
only later define themselves through their actions. This concept challenges the traditional view that human nature or
essence is fixed. Sartre illustrates this by emphasizing that individuals are not born with specific qualities or identities;
rather, they build and reveal these qualities through their actions. For instance, a person becomes honest by repeatedly
telling the truth, not because they are inherently honest. In this way, human beings actively create their essence
through their choices, implying that identity is an ongoing process shaped by personal responsibility and freedom.

Freedom and Responsibility

For Sartre, freedom is a defining characteristic of human existence. He famously states that we are "condemned to be
free" – a phrase that captures the paradox of human freedom. Since we did not create ourselves, we are thrust into
existence with the freedom to make choices but with no definitive guidance on how to live. This inherent freedom is
an inescapable condition, meaning that every action reflects a choice, whether consciously made or not. Sartre argues
that individuals cannot avoid the burden of freedom, as even choosing not to decide is a choice in itself. This freedom
demands responsibility, requiring each person to take ownership of their actions and their effects on themselves and
others. Sartre’s philosophy rejects determinism, emphasizing that people have the ultimate power to shape their
responses to external conditions. He asserts that humans are not objects manipulated by external forces or defined by
social roles but are inherently free agents capable of transcending these influences.

Freedom

For Sartre, freedom means that humans are not born with a set purpose or a fixed path. Unlike a tool (like a hammer or
a spoon) that has a clear purpose from the beginning, people must figure out their own purpose in life. This freedom is
total because, in every moment, we have the power to make choices about who we want to be and how we want to
live.

Example: Imagine a young woman who grew up in a family of doctors. Her family expects her to follow the same
path and become a doctor. Sartre’s view of freedom would say that, despite these expectations, she is free to choose
any career path. If she decides to become an artist, she’s using her freedom to create her own path, rather than just
following what others expect of her. According to Sartre, we have this freedom in every decision, big or small.

Responsibility

With this freedom, however, comes responsibility. Sartre believed that because we have the freedom to make choices,
we are also fully responsible for the consequences of those choices. This responsibility can be heavy because it means
we can’t blame other people or circumstances for our actions – we must own them. Sartre believed that trying to
escape from this responsibility is a form of self-deception, which he called “bad faith.”

Example: Let’s say a man chooses to lie in a job interview to make himself look more qualified. Later, when he’s
struggling with the responsibilities of the job, he might feel tempted to blame the job itself or his boss for his
struggles. But according to Sartre, he is responsible because he chose to lie, knowing it might lead to challenges later.
Sartre would say that taking responsibility means acknowledging that it was his own choice to misrepresent himself,
and he must face the consequences of that choice.

The Connection Between Freedom and Responsibility

Sartre’s main point is that freedom and responsibility go hand in hand. We have the freedom to shape our lives, but we
must accept responsibility for whatever path we choose. This can be challenging because it means there’s no one else
to blame – we alone create our essence, or “who we are,” through our choices.

Another Example: Imagine someone who is unhappy in their current career. They feel pressured by family and society
to stay in the job, but Sartre would say they are free to leave and pursue something they are passionate about. If they
stay in their current job, they are choosing to prioritize stability or family approval over personal fulfilment. Sartre
would say this choice is entirely theirs – and they are responsible for the outcome, whether they stay or go.

In Sartre's view, freedom is a gift but also a weight. It’s up to each person to embrace that freedom to live authentically
and accept full responsibility for the life they create.

Bad Faith and Authenticity

A recurring theme in Sartre's existentialist thought is the concept of bad faith, which refers to self-deception or the
denial of one's freedom and responsibility. Bad faith occurs when individuals conform to societal expectations or
reduce themselves to predefined roles, neglecting their potential for self-definition. Sartre provides the example of a
waiter who performs his role with exaggerated precision, almost as if acting rather than merely existing as a person. In
this case, the waiter is guilty of bad faith, as he is reducing himself to the role assigned by society rather than
recognizing his freedom to be more than that role. Sartre argues that people often use such self-deception to avoid the
anxiety that accompanies true freedom and responsibility. By refusing to acknowledge their freedom, individuals can
escape the discomfort of choice but at the cost of authenticity. Embracing freedom, even when it induces anxiety, is
essential for living an authentic life, as it allows individuals to fully engage with and define their existence.
Existentialism and Humanism

In Existentialism and Humanism, Sartre defends existentialism against critics who view it as a pessimistic or nihilistic
philosophy. He argues that existentialism, far from promoting despair, celebrates human agency and the power of
individuals to shape their lives. According to Sartre, existentialism emphasizes that individuals have the freedom to
determine their values and purpose in an inherently meaningless world. This perspective places the responsibility of
creating meaning on each person rather than relying on predetermined ideals or divine intervention. Sartre’s humanism
acknowledges the dignity and potential of human beings to forge their paths and contribute to humanity through
authentic choices. Thus, existentialism provides a hopeful view of human potential, empowering individuals to pursue
self-defined goals and ethical commitments. This view honors humanity by highlighting the importance of individual
freedom and the potential for each person to make meaningful choices.

Imagine you just graduated from school, and people expect you to follow a certain path (like getting a steady job,
starting a family, etc.). But instead, you decide to travel the world and volunteer for various causes because you feel it
will bring purpose and fulfilment to your life. According to Sartre, by choosing this path, you are creating your own
meaning. You’re not following society’s expectations; you’re exercising your freedom to define who you want to be.

Responsibility and Ethics

Sartre’s existentialism extends into ethics, as he asserts that personal freedom carries ethical obligations toward others.
Since each person’s actions shape their identity and influence others, individuals bear responsibility not only for their
own lives but also for the collective impact of their choices. Sartre posits that when one chooses, they not only define
themselves but also make a statement about how they believe everyone should act in similar situations. This notion of
responsibility emphasizes that individual choices contribute to a broader social fabric, reinforcing the
interconnectedness of personal freedom and social accountability. Sartre’s emphasis on freedom thus does not imply
an unrestrained pursuit of self-interest but rather a recognition that genuine freedom requires acknowledging and
respecting the freedom of others.

Influence of Existentialism on Sartre’s Literature

Sartre's existentialist philosophy is not limited to his theoretical works but permeates his literary output as well. In
Nausea, the protagonist Antoine Roquentin experiences an existential crisis, confronting the overwhelming freedom
and meaninglessness of existence. Through his characters, Sartre explores the psychological and emotional
dimensions of existentialism, illustrating how individuals struggle with the weight of freedom, responsibility, and the
quest for authenticity. Sartre’s literature offers a concrete exploration of existentialist themes, presenting readers with
characters who navigate the challenges of defining themselves in an uncertain and indifferent world.

Criticisms and Legacy

While Sartre’s existentialism has been celebrated for its emphasis on freedom and human agency, it has also faced
criticism. Sartre’s existentialist ideas, especially his concepts of freedom, responsibility, and bad faith, have been
widely influential but also face several criticisms:
1. Overemphasis on Individual Freedom

Some critics argue that Sartre overemphasizes individual freedom and responsibility, ignoring the significant impact of
societal, economic, and cultural forces on a person’s ability to make free choices. For example, people facing systemic
poverty or discrimination often have limited choices, which challenges the notion that everyone is completely free to
define themselves. A person born into poverty might feel unable to pursue certain goals, like higher education, due to
financial constraints. Critics argue that Sartre's focus on freedom ignores such practical limitations, which shape our
opportunities and identities.

2. Burden of Existential Responsibility

Sartre’s philosophy places a heavy psychological burden on individuals by suggesting they are entirely responsible for
creating meaning in a meaningless universe. Some critics believe this leads to existential anxiety or despair, as it
requires each person to continually question and justify their choices.

Example: Constantly choosing who you want to be and questioning whether your choices reflect your “authentic” self
can be overwhelming. Critics argue that this existential responsibility can lead to a feeling of loneliness, as individuals
realize they are solely responsible for their lives without any inherent guidelines.

3. Subjective Morality

Sartre’s existentialism lacks a clear basis for moral values. Because he denies any fixed human nature or universal
ethical principles, it is difficult to establish right or wrong outside of personal choice. Critics argue that this
subjectivity could lead to moral relativism, where any action could be justified as long as the individual feels it aligns
with their “authentic” self.

Example: Without universal moral guidelines, one person might justify lying or harming others if they see it as part of
their “authentic” self. Critics worry that Sartre’s focus on individual freedom allows for too much ethical flexibility.

4. Isolation and Detachment from Others

Sartre’s existentialism can be criticized for fostering a sense of isolation. By emphasizing individual freedom, it may
downplay the importance of human relationships, social bonds, and empathy. Critics argue that Sartre’s idea of
freedom can lead individuals to prioritize personal authenticity over consideration for others, creating a self-centred
philosophy.

Example: According to Sartre, a person who chooses to live authentically might feel justified in leaving a relationship
if it no longer aligns with their self-definition. Critics argue this focus on self-authenticity can sometimes conflict with
responsibilities to others or mutual commitments in relationships.

5. Neglect of Emotional and Psychological Realities

Sartre’s concept of freedom, which demands that people accept their own decisions without external excuses, does not
fully account for the emotional and psychological factors that influence human behavior. Many psychologists argue
that subconscious drives, traumas, or irrational fears significantly impact how people act, often in ways they don’t
consciously choose or understand.
Example: Someone with a deep-seated phobia may avoid certain situations even if they rationally want to confront
them. Sartre’s philosophy doesn’t account well for such cases, where unconscious influences may overpower
conscious freedom and responsibility.

6. Determinism and the Question of Free Will

Some critics question whether Sartre’s radical freedom is compatible with scientific or psychological determinism,
which suggests that genetics, environment, and upbringing significantly shape who we are. Sartre’s rejection of
determinism is seen as overly optimistic by critics who believe free will is limited by biological and psychological
factors.

Example: Research in neuroscience indicates that certain decisions may be influenced by brain activity before we
become conscious of them. Critics argue that this undermines Sartre’s notion of complete freedom, suggesting that
some aspects of our choices are predetermined or heavily influenced by factors beyond our control.

Conclusion

Jean-Paul Sartre's existentialist philosophy offers a profound exploration of freedom, responsibility, and the human
condition. By asserting that "existence precedes essence," Sartre challenges individuals to embrace the freedom to
define themselves through their choices. His emphasis on authenticity, responsibility, and the ethical implications of
freedom provides a framework for understanding the complexities of human existence in a world without inherent
meaning. Sartre’s existentialism, both hopeful and demanding, encourages individuals to confront the burdens of
freedom and embrace their potential to shape their lives authentically. In doing so, Sartre’s work has left an indelible
mark on philosophy, literature, and the broader discourse on what it means to be human.