Existentialist philosophy, a ideology that arose in the 19th and 20th centuries, stresses personal freedom, free will, and individual experience. Central to this school of thought is the belief that being precedes essence, implying that people create their own significance and meaning through their choices. Existentialist thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Nietzsche assert that life lacks inherent meaning, and it is up to each one to forge their own beliefs in a seemingly indifferent world.

This school of thought questions traditional notions of predetermination and the notion that life's meaning is predetermined. Conversely, existentialism proposes that humans must confront the inherent absurdity of life and accept their liberty to decide and do. This often leads to an existential dilemma, where persons grapple with feelings of unease and bewilderment as they encounter the void of inherent meaning. However, it is through this conflict that one can achieve genuine existence by acknowledging liability for one's actions and forging personal significance.

Existentialism philosophy also delves into themes of isolation, hopelessness, and the state of being human. In a society where established beliefs and values are often questioned, existentialism provides a framework for understanding the intricacies of human life. By recognizing the lack of definite truths, existentialist thought motivates persons to thrive vividly and genuinely, despite the uncertainties and challenges of life. It is a call to embrace the freedom and responsibility that come with being human, and to find meaning in an otherwise unfeeling existence.