Søren Kierkegaard and the Concept of Anxiety

Study Notes

Søren Kierkegaard, a 19th-century Danish philosopher and theologian, is known as the father of Existentialism.
Born in Copenhagen to a wealthy family, he was exposed to philosophical thinking at a young age due to his father's interest.
Studied philosophy and theology at the University of Copenhagen but found historical and philosophical works too intellectualized.
Believed in focusing on "what am I to do" instead of what he must know.
At age 22, experienced a series of family tragedies that emphasized the uncertainty and transience of life.
Wrote extensively during his mid-twenties, producing many books under various pseudonyms and his own name.
One of Kierkegaard's most significant contributions was the concept of anxiety, an existential feeling of dread and uncertainty about existence.
Anxiety is the recognition of freedom and responsibility in the face of the unknown and uncertainty.
Individuals must pursue their passions based on subjective truth to best cope with anxiety and live a fulfilled life.
Avoiding anxiety and responsibility through conformity, distractions, and addictions leads to despair and an unrealized self.
Life will never become less scary or more sturdy; individuals should make decisions that pursue the greatest and most interesting aspects of the unknown.- Anxiety is deeply rooted in human consciousness, it is a natural response to existence.
Anxiety is a fundamental aspect of feeling and thinking.
We may be referred to as Homo anxietatem, or anxious man, due to the prevalence of anxiety.
Anxiety arises from disquieting, confusing, and uncertain experiences in life.
Access to more choices in the modern world results in more reasons for anxiety.
Kierkegaard suggested learning to live with and through anxiety, taking leaps of faith into personal beliefs.