The pandemic has forced people to stay away from each other due to physical distancing measures.
This can lead to a sense of disconnection which may cause individuals to question their existence. Existentialism is a philosophical approach that focuses on individual freedom, responsibility, and meaning. It posits that humans are alone in an indifferent universe and must create their own purpose through choices they make. This philosophy can shed light on the ethical implications of social isolation, structural marginalization, and interconnectedness.
Existentialists believe that human beings are fundamentally free and responsible for making decisions about their lives. This means that individuals should take control of their situation and choose how they want to live rather than letting external factors dictate it. During social isolation, some people may feel trapped and unable to make choices. They might also experience feelings of hopelessness or helplessness. The concept of freedom can offer them hope that they have agency and can shape their future despite difficult circumstances.
Existentialism argues that humans are isolated by nature because they do not share a common language or experience with others. Social isolation heightens this feeling of separation as individuals are deprived of interactions with others. But this can also highlight our shared humanity, reminding us that we all face similar struggles and desires. We must recognize these commonalities and work towards building solidarity across differences.
Existentialists emphasize that humans are constantly confronting mortality and death, making every moment precious. Isolation can intensify this awareness as it exposes the fragility of life.
It can also lead to a deeper appreciation of life's fleeting nature and encourage individuals to seize each moment.
People may prioritize spending time with loved ones or engaging in meaningful activities instead of rushing through tasks mindlessly.
Fourth, structural marginalization refers to systemic oppression based on race, gender, class, sexuality, disability, etc. Existentialism acknowledges the importance of recognizing one's place in society but warns against relying solely on societal norms for meaning. Structurally marginalized groups often feel alienated from mainstream culture and struggle to find belonging. This philosophy can help them embrace their uniqueness and resist oppressive structures while still seeking community with like-minded individuals.
Existentialist perspectives provide insight into the moral implications of social isolation and structural marginalization. They offer hope by stressing individual freedom and responsibility, acknowledge commonalities between humans, highlight the preciousness of life, and reject societal pressures. Embracing existentialist ideas during challenging times can empower us to create our own meaning and build solidarity across differences.
How can existentialist perspectives illuminate the moral implications of social isolation and structural marginalization?
Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual freedom and personal responsibility. It argues that individuals are free to make choices about how they want to live their lives, but these choices have consequences that must be accepted as part of their existence. One consequence of this freedom is the potential for social isolation and structural marginalization. This means that some people may find themselves excluded from society due to factors beyond their control, such as race, class, gender, or disability.