How to Become an Existentialist Philosopher (Question Reality, Seek Truth!)
If you’ve ever pondered on the mysteries of human existence or wondered about the principles of becoming an existentialist philosopher, you’ve come to the right platform.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the PRECISE steps you need to undertake to craft your career as an existentialist philosopher. We’ll discuss:
- The knowledge you need to acquire.
- The education that can guide your path.
- How to establish yourself as an existentialist philosopher.
So, whether you’re an amateur philosopher or a seasoned thinker looking to deepen your understanding, stay with us.
We’re about to unfold the map to becoming an existentialist philosopher.
Let’s embark on this philosophical journey!
Steps to Become an Existentialist Philosopher
Step 1: Gain a Profound Understanding of Philosophy
To pursue a career as an existentialist philosopher, you will first need to gain a profound understanding of philosophy as a whole.
This can be achieved through reading the works of great philosophers, attending philosophy classes, and engaging in philosophical debates and discussions.
Explore different branches of philosophy like metaphysics, epistemology, logic, ethics, and aesthetics, to build a strong foundation in the field.
It’s also crucial to delve into existentialism specifically.
Familiarize yourself with the ideas of existentialist philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Søren Kierkegaard.
This will help you appreciate the nuances of existentialism, its origins, and its impact on society and culture.
Developing your critical thinking skills is a significant part of this step.
The goal isn’t merely to learn about different philosophical concepts and ideas, but to critically analyze, interpret, and question them.
Consider enrolling in a Bachelor’s program in philosophy, which will provide you with an academic environment to cultivate these skills.
Remember, being a philosopher is not just about knowledge acquisition; it is about fostering a questioning mind, open to differing viewpoints and capable of incisive analysis.
As an existentialist, you should be comfortable dealing with complex and often abstract concepts related to human existence, freedom, responsibility, and the meaning of life.
Step 2: Obtain a Degree in Philosophy
If you wish to become an existentialist philosopher, your next step would be to pursue a degree in philosophy.
The course work in a philosophy degree program offers an extensive exploration of a wide range of philosophical traditions and schools of thought, including existentialism.
This degree will provide you with the requisite understanding of key philosophical concepts, theories, and methodologies.
In your undergraduate studies, you should focus on classes that delve into existentialist thought and its main proponents like Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Heidegger, Sartre, and Camus.
Knowledge of their works and ideas is essential to becoming an existentialist philosopher.
Additionally, it may be beneficial to take courses in related disciplines such as psychology, sociology, and literature as existentialism is an interdisciplinary philosophy, often overlapping with these areas.
Once you’ve completed your undergraduate studies, you can opt to continue your education and pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in philosophy.
These advanced degrees often allow for a greater degree of specialization.
You can choose to focus on existentialism, produce original research, and contribute to the field.
Remember that philosophy is not just a field of study but a way of thinking.
It involves rigorous argumentation, critical analysis, and deep contemplation.
Developing these skills will be crucial for your journey as an existentialist philosopher.
Step 3: Study the Works of Existentialist Philosophers
After you have acquired a basic understanding of philosophy, the next step involves immersing yourself in the works of existentialist philosophers.
This includes studying the writings, teachings, and philosophies of influential figures such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Friedrich Nietzsche, Albert Camus, and Soren Kierkegaard, among others.
Each of these philosophers brought unique perspectives and interpretations to existentialism.
For instance, Kierkegaard emphasized individual choice and personal responsibility, while Nietzsche focused on the affirmation of life even in its darkest moments.
To fully understand existentialism, it is also important to study the sociopolitical contexts in which these philosophers lived and worked.
This will provide a deeper understanding of the roots and evolution of existentialist thought.
Engage in critical analysis of their theories, compare their viewpoints, and understand the underlying themes and arguments.
This deeper understanding will provide a robust base for your own reflections and contributions to existential philosophy.
Do not limit yourself to reading only; attend lectures, engage in discussion groups, and explore interpretative literature on these philosophers.
As you deepen your understanding, start forming your own interpretations and perspectives on existentialist philosophy.
Step 4: Engage in Rigorous Intellectual Discussions
As you advance in your studies and research, it is essential that you actively participate in intellectual discussions and debates related to existentialist philosophy.
This can be done through various forums such as academic conferences, seminars, workshops, or even online platforms.
Engaging with others will allow you to exchange ideas, challenge your own perspectives, and deepen your understanding of existentialist philosophy.
It is through these discussions that you may identify gaps in existing philosophical theories and formulate your own contributions to the field.
This helps in developing critical thinking and argumentative skills, both of which are essential for philosophers.
Moreover, these debates can often lead to new research opportunities and collaborations.
Also, consider publishing your thoughts, arguments, and research in academic journals.
Publishing your work not only fosters a scholarly dialogue but also helps establish your credibility as an existentialist philosopher.
In addition, it exposes your work to critiques from other scholars, which can ultimately help refine your ideas and theories.
This step is also crucial for networking with other philosophers and thinkers in your field.
It allows you to establish connections with professionals who can guide you, mentor you, or collaborate with you in the future.
Remember, philosophy is often about exploring together and learning from each other, and these intellectual exchanges form a vital part of your journey as an existentialist philosopher.
Step 5: Develop Your Own Philosophical Ideas
As an aspiring Existentialist Philosopher, it is vital that you develop your own philosophical ideas and theories.
This is a significant step towards contributing to the field of existential philosophy.
Instead of merely replicating the ideas of existing existential philosophers like Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Heidegger, or Sartre, you should strive to form your own unique interpretations and understanding of existential philosophy.
Start by evaluating and questioning the current existential philosophies.
Look for gaps, contradictions, or areas that you think are not fully addressed.
Do you have a different perspective on existential angst, freedom, or the meaninglessness of life?
Your thoughts and ideas should challenge existing theories and provoke thought.
Building your own existential theory involves a lot of reading, writing, thinking, and critical analysis.
Start by writing down your thoughts and ideas, even if they seem incomplete or rough.
Over time, as you continue to reflect and analyze, these ideas will mature and evolve.
You can also join philosophy clubs, online forums, or attend philosophy conferences to engage in philosophical discussions and debates.
This will not only help you refine your ideas but also expose you to a wide range of perspectives.
Remember, the goal is not to achieve consensus or popularity but to contribute to the ongoing dialogue of existential philosophy with your unique voice and perspective.
Step 6: Write and Publish Your Thoughts and Ideas
In the realm of existentialist philosophy, a crucial step is articulating, documenting, and publishing your thoughts and ideas.
This allows you to contribute to the ongoing discourse and establish a name for yourself within the community.
Begin by writing articles or essays that present your own unique perspective on existentialism.
These might be critiques of established theories, interpretations of existentialist works, or the development of your own ideas within the existentialist framework.
Remember that existentialism encourages original thought, so don’t be afraid to challenge existing ideas and norms.
Once you have your work, submit it to relevant academic journals, philosophy magazines, or even online platforms.
Attending conferences and delivering papers can also be a great way to spread your ideas and receive feedback from your peers.
Keep in mind that getting published can be competitive and may require many submissions and rewrites.
Don’t be discouraged by rejections or critical feedback, but use them as opportunities to refine your thinking and writing.
In the long run, the consistent publishing of your work can lead to recognition in the field, invitations to speak at conferences, and opportunities to teach or write books on existential philosophy.
This is how you can make a significant impact on the field as an existentialist philosopher.
Step 7: Pursue Graduate Studies in Philosophy
As an aspiring existentialist philosopher, after completing your bachelor’s degree, you should strongly consider pursuing a graduate degree in philosophy.
This will deepen your knowledge in the field, provide you with important analytical skills, and introduce you to higher-level concepts and theories.
A master’s degree in philosophy generally involves coursework, a thesis, and comprehensive exams.
Your master’s degree coursework should focus on areas in philosophy that align with existentialism, such as ethics, phenomenology, metaphysics, epistemology, and philosophy of mind.
A strong understanding of these areas will help you better understand and contribute to existentialist philosophy.
The thesis component of your master’s degree is your opportunity to specialize in existentialist philosophy, with a detailed and lengthy exploration of a particular aspect of the field.
This could be an analysis of a particular existentialist philosopher’s works, a comparative study between different existentialist philosophers, or a deep dive into a specific existentialist theme or concept.
After completing your master’s degree, you may want to consider pursuing a doctorate in philosophy.
This is especially useful if you aim to teach philosophy at a university level or make significant contributions to existentialist philosophy.
A doctorate typically involves more rigorous study and original research, culminating in a dissertation.
Remember, the path to becoming an existentialist philosopher is not just about obtaining degrees.
It’s equally important to continuously engage with philosophical texts, participate in philosophical discussions, and constantly question and reflect on your own and others’ experiences.
Existentialism, after all, is about finding individual meaning and purpose in life, and this requires a deep and ongoing engagement with the world around you.
Step 8: Attend and Participate in Philosophy Conferences
As an aspiring Existentialist Philosopher, actively participating in Philosophy conferences is crucial.
These gatherings provide an opportunity to network with fellow philosophers, share ideas and insights, and also to keep abreast with the latest trends and thoughts in existential philosophy.
The world of philosophy is expansive and ever-evolving.
Regular attendance at such events can help you stay informed about new theories and interpretations within the existentialist framework.
It can also help you to engage in intellectual debates and discussions which can further refine your own ideas and perspectives.
Furthermore, presenting papers or facilitating discussions at these conferences can significantly bolster your credibility within the philosophical community.
It provides a platform for you to communicate your thoughts and theories and also to receive constructive feedback.
This can help you grow as a philosopher, improving your ability to articulate complex ideas and engage in productive philosophical discourse.
Remember to actively participate in these conferences, as passive attendance may not yield the same benefits.
The more you interact, discuss, and debate, the more you can learn and evolve in your existential philosophical journey.
Step 9: Teach Philosophy at a University or College
Once you have a deep understanding of existentialist philosophy and have contributed to the field through your own research and publications, consider teaching at a university or college.
This is an excellent way to share your knowledge, inspire new generations of existentialist philosophers, and continue to learn and grow in your field.
Many existentialist philosophers become professors, lecturers, or tutors in philosophy departments.
You could teach general philosophy courses or lead classes specifically on existentialist philosophers like Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Sartre, or Camus.
Apart from teaching, you would also get opportunities to mentor students, conduct further research, and contribute to the academic community.
Remember, teaching philosophy is not just about lecturing and grading papers.
It’s about fostering thoughtful discussions, challenging students to think critically, and helping them understand complex philosophical concepts.
Do note, most higher education institutions require a doctorate degree for teaching positions.
If you haven’t yet earned your Ph.D. in Philosophy, you might need to consider this step.
Ultimately, teaching can be a rewarding way to apply your knowledge and passion for existentialist philosophy.
Step 10: Continue to Refine and Evolve Your Philosophical Views.
In the field of existentialist philosophy, your work is never truly done.
Even after formal education and initial research, it’s essential to continue evolving and refining your philosophical views.
As an existentialist philosopher, you will continuously encounter new thoughts, ideas, and perspectives that can challenge your existing understanding and beliefs.
You should regularly read new and old philosophical texts, engage in discourse with peers and mentors, and continue to self-reflect on your thoughts and ideas.
You may also consider publishing your theories and research in philosophical journals and attending conferences to expose yourself to different viewpoints and innovative theories.
In existentialism, life and experiences are significant, so you should also focus on living a fulfilling and authentic life.
Personal experiences can substantially influence your philosophy, so take the time to engage with different cultures, people, and philosophies.
Engage in activities that challenge your existential views and push you out of your comfort zone.
Remember, philosophy is not a stagnant field; it’s dynamic and ever-evolving.
As an existentialist philosopher, your philosophy should also evolve over time.
Keep questioning, keep learning, and keep growing as a thinker.
Existentialist Philosopher Roles and Responsibilities
Existentialist Philosophers deal with abstract concepts around human existence, including the nature of reality, the self, freedom, and the meaning of life.
They are critical thinkers who engage in profound contemplation and articulate complex ideas.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Philosophical Inquiry
- Research, explore, and discuss existential themes such as the meaning of existence, freedom, death, and isolation.
- Analyze philosophical questions and arguments, aiming to understand, clarify, and solve them.
- Reflect on human existence, individuality, and the implications of freedom and choice.
Writing and Publication
- Write and publish articles, essays, and books to share philosophical ideas and theories.
- Review and revise works to ensure clarity, coherence, and intellectual rigor.
Public Speaking
- Deliver lectures, presentations, and speeches to share philosophical concepts and stimulate discussions.
- Participate in debates, forums, and discussions to express and defend philosophical perspectives.
Teaching
- Educate students or the public about existentialism, its history, key figures, and central ideas.
- Guide students in exploring existentialist themes and developing critical thinking skills.
Consultation
- Provide philosophical consultation to individuals, organizations, or policy makers on existentialist perspectives.
- Apply philosophical insights to practical problems or contemporary issues.
Research
- Conduct thorough research into historical and contemporary existentialist philosophy.
- Stay updated on current philosophical debates and developments.
Critique
- Critically review the work of other philosophers, providing constructive feedback and counter-arguments.
- Evaluate different philosophical perspectives, theories, and methodologies.
Collaboration
- Collaborate with other philosophers, scholars, or interdisciplinary teams for research or discussions.
Continued Learning
- Continually update knowledge in existential philosophy, and related fields.
- Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops to learn from other philosophers and present own work.
What Does an Existentialist Philosopher Do?
Existentialist Philosophers focus on the study and exploration of existentialism, a philosophy that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice.
They engage in deep critical thinking and analysis of life, the nature of existence, the purpose and meaning of life, human nature, and the complexities of the human condition.
They explore questions about freedom, authenticity, despair, and absurdity.
These philosophers usually conduct extensive research and write papers or books on their findings and theories.
They present arguments, counterarguments, and defenses for their philosophical positions based on empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and historical and contemporary philosophy.
Existentialist Philosophers often hold teaching positions at universities, where they instruct students on the principles of existentialism and the broader field of philosophy.
They lead class discussions, assign and grade papers, and guide student research.
In addition, they may attend and present at philosophy conferences, contribute to academic journals, and participate in public debates and discussions.
Their role also involves staying updated on current philosophical debates and new research in their field.
Existentialist Philosophers are also often involved in interdisciplinary work, collaborating with psychologists, sociologists, anthropologists, and other scholars to bring existentialist perspectives to a wide range of issues.
They provide existentialist interpretations and insights that can inform our understanding of various aspects of human life, from personal relationships and mental health issues to social phenomena and political events.
Essential Existentialist Philosopher Skills
- Conceptual Thinking: Existentialist philosophers must have the ability to understand, analyze, and interpret complex and abstract concepts, ideas, and theories. They should be able to think deeply about existential questions and issues.
- Communication: Clear and articulate communication, both written and verbal, is essential. They should be able to express complex philosophical ideas and theories in a way that is understandable and engaging to others.
- Reading and Understanding: An existentialist philosopher must have a strong ability to read and understand complex philosophical texts, interpreting and synthesizing ideas from a wide range of sources.
- Critical Thinking: The ability to assess, dissect, and challenge ideas, arguments, and beliefs critically is crucial. This includes the capacity to identify logical fallacies, biases, and inconsistencies.
- Knowledge of Philosophical Schools and History: Understanding the history of philosophy, the evolution of existentialist thought, and the key figures and works in existentialism is vital. This knowledge provides the context needed to develop original philosophical thoughts.
- Writing: Writing clearly, persuasively, and meticulously is key to sharing ideas, creating compelling arguments, and contributing to the field of philosophy.
- Problem-Solving: Philosophers grapple with deep and complex problems about existence, meaning, and morality. The ability to approach these problems analytically and creatively is critical.
- Empathy: While existentialist philosophers often deal with abstract and impersonal concepts, empathy allows them to understand and consider the human experience’s emotional and personal dimensions.
- Open-mindedness: A willingness to consider different perspectives and ideas, even those that challenge their own beliefs, is crucial for philosophical inquiry.
- Self-reflection: The ability to reflect on one’s own beliefs, assumptions, and experiences is essential in existentialist philosophy, as it often involves questioning the nature of self and identity.
- Research: Proficiency in conducting rigorous and systematic philosophical research, including the ability to use primary and secondary sources effectively, is necessary.
- Teaching: Many existentialist philosophers also teach, requiring the skills to present complex ideas in an understandable and engaging way, facilitate discussions, and mentor students.
- Persistence: The work of a philosopher often involves grappling with challenging, unsolvable problems. Persistence and resilience in the face of difficulty and uncertainty are crucial.
- Creativity: Original thinking and the ability to come up with new and novel ideas or perspectives are invaluable in this field.
- Ethics: A strong understanding of ethical principles, both within the field of philosophy itself and more broadly, is crucial for existentialist philosophers.
Existentialist Philosopher Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Aspiring Existentialist Philosopher
The journey usually begins with an intense curiosity about existence and the meaning of life.
As an aspiring existentialist philosopher, you will spend most of your time reading philosophical works, pondering life’s questions, and developing your unique perspectives.
Here are some ways to enhance your skills at this stage:
- Pursue Knowledge: Engage with classic philosophical texts, particularly those written by famous existentialists like Nietzsche, Kierkegaard, and Sartre.
- Discourse and Debate: Participate in philosophical discussions and debates to sharpen your arguments and broaden your perspectives.
- Write Regularly: Begin to articulate and develop your philosophical thoughts through essays or a personal journal.
The Ascent: Independent Existentialist Philosopher
As you gain confidence in your own thought process and understanding of existential philosophy, you become an independent existentialist philosopher.
At this stage, you will start writing and publishing your philosophical ideas and perhaps even give talks or lectures.
How to thrive in this stage:
- Original Thought: Challenge existing philosophical ideas and strive to develop original insights.
- Public Speaking: Develop your public speaking skills to effectively share your philosophical ideas with larger audiences.
- Networking: Engage with other philosophers and intellectuals to exchange ideas and receive constructive criticism.
Reaching New Heights: Recognized Existentialist Philosopher
The next step is to become a recognized existentialist philosopher.
At this level, your work is well-known and respected within philosophical circles.
You may also start receiving invitations to speak at conferences or universities.
To excel as a recognized existentialist philosopher:
- Continued Learning: Always stay open to new ideas and perspectives, even as you become an authority in your field.
- Mentorship: Help aspiring philosophers find their own philosophical voice.
- Contribution to Philosophy: Aim to make a meaningful impact on the field of existential philosophy.
Beyond the Horizon: Influential Existentialist Philosopher
As your work continues to gain traction, you may become an influential existentialist philosopher.
At this stage, your philosophical ideas significantly impact the field and society at large.
Here are some focuses for this stage:
- Public Influence: Use your platform to bring philosophical discourse into public conversation.
- Teaching: Consider teaching philosophy at a university to directly shape the next generation of thinkers.
- Continued Writing: Keep pushing boundaries with your writings, contributing to the evolution of existential philosophy.
Pinnacle of Success: Groundbreaking Existentialist Philosopher
The highest echelon of an existentialist philosopher’s career is being recognized as a groundbreaking thinker, whose works have permanently transformed the field.
At this level, your work is studied by philosophy students worldwide, and your ideas become a part of the philosophical canon.
Existentialist Philosopher Salary
Entry-Level Existentialist Philosopher
- Median Salary: $40,000 – $60,000 per year
- Entry-level existentialist philosophers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold bachelor’s or master’s degrees in philosophy or related fields. They often work as adjunct faculty or research associates.
Mid-Level Existentialist Philosopher
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $85,000 per year
- Mid-level philosophers have 2-5 years of experience and often conduct independent research, publish articles and books, and teach philosophy courses.
Senior Existentialist Philosopher
- Median Salary: $85,000 – $120,000 per year
- Senior philosophers possess 5+ years of experience. They are tenured faculty members at universities, known for their significant contributions to existential philosophy. They also lead research projects and mentor junior philosophers.
Lead Existentialist Philosopher / Department Head
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $150,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve leading the philosophy department of a university, setting research agendas, and guiding the overall direction of existential philosophy studies.
Principal Philosopher / Dean of Philosophy / Public Intellectual
- Median Salary: $120,000 – $200,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, deep philosophical expertise, and recognition within the field. They often involve setting academic strategies for a university, publishing influential works, and shaping public discourse around existential philosophy.
Existentialist Philosopher Work Environment
Existentialist philosophers usually work in academic or intellectual settings such as universities, colleges, and research institutions, where they are often tasked with teaching, conducting research, and writing academic papers.
Some may also work independently as authors, writing books or articles for the general public.
They commonly work in a quiet, reflective environment conducive to deep thought, such as a private office or a library, and their work hours can be fairly flexible, depending on their teaching or research commitments.
Some existentialist philosophers may also engage in public speaking, participate in philosophical debates, or consult on ethical issues, which can take them to a variety of venues from lecture halls to conference centers.
While most of their work is intellectually demanding and requires a high level of concentration, existentialist philosophers often have the freedom to pursue their own philosophical interests and contribute to the broader field of existential thought.
FAQs About Becoming an Existentialist Philosopher
What is needed to become an existentialist philosopher?
Becoming an existentialist philosopher requires a profound understanding of philosophy, particularly existentialist philosophy, and its key thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre, Friedrich Nietzsche, and Albert Camus.
This can be gained through a formal education such as a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in philosophy.
Reading widely is crucial, not only the works of key existentialist philosophers but also literature, psychology, and other branches of philosophy.
Strong critical thinking, analytical skills, and a willingness to question and examine life’s most profound questions are also essential.
How long does it take to become an existentialist philosopher?
The time it takes to become an existentialist philosopher can depend on your path of education and self-study.
A bachelor’s degree in philosophy typically takes four years, followed by a master’s degree which takes around two years, and a PhD in philosophy which can take anywhere from four to seven years.
However, becoming an expert in existentialism specifically involves continual learning and reflection, even after formal education is completed.
Can I be an existentialist philosopher without a degree?
While a degree can offer a structured approach and provide credentials, philosophy is a field where independent study and thought are highly valued.
Many people engage with existentialist philosophy without formal training, through reading and discussing the works of existentialist philosophers.
However, a career in academia or professional philosophy will typically require a degree and further qualifications.
Is being an existentialist philosopher a stressful job?
Existentialist philosophy involves grappling with profound and often complex questions about existence, freedom, and meaning, which can be intellectually challenging and emotionally taxing.
However, it can also be immensely rewarding and fulfilling.
Stress levels can depend on the career path one chooses with their expertise in existentialist philosophy.
For instance, an academic career can involve stress related to publishing, teaching, and funding pressures.
What are the prospects for existentialist philosophers in the next decade?
The field of philosophy is not heavily influenced by market trends, but there’s always a place for deep thinkers in society.
Existentialist philosophers can find opportunities in academia, writing, public speaking, and consulting, or any field requiring critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
In a rapidly changing world, the ability to question, analyze and offer insights into human existence and its challenges is likely to remain in demand.
Conclusion
And there it is.
Embarking on the quest to become an existentialist philosopher is no simple endeavor, but it’s undeniably enriching.
Equipped with the right knowledge, introspective capacity, and determination, you’re well on your way to making a profound impact in the realm of philosophical thought.
Remember, the journey may be perplexing, but the intellectual rewards are boundless. Your musings could lead to the next significant shift in how we understand existence, our purpose, and our interactions.
So, take that first plunge. Immerse yourself in deep thought. Engage in discourse with fellow philosophers. And most importantly, never stop questioning.
Because the world is waiting for the insights only you can provide.
And if you’re seeking personalized guidance on initiating or advancing your career in existentialist philosophy, explore our AI Career Path Advisor.
This complimentary tool is designed to offer tailored advice and resources to help you navigate your philosophical journey effectively.
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