Existentialism vs. Relativism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Existentialism vs. Relativism - Essay ExampleExistentialists intend that personalized choices are unique and do not have to be found on an objective form of truth (Waugh, 2004 pp. 432). Relativism serves as the antagonist of absolutism. These are individuals who perceive every situation in life as having two diametrical perspectives and understanding. Relativism personalities believe that the truth or falsity of a concept is relative to the social context from which the idea is generated. Their idea is that what is true for an age group, social categorize or tribe, might not be true for the same age group, social class and tribe in a different setting. They appreciate that in that location exists diversity in the norms that are upheld by various societies (McLachlan, 2005 pp. 92). Key Distinctions between Existentialism and Relativism Sartre used existentialism following the World War II as a basis of framing the political and social issues. Camus on the other hand assisted in the popularization of the philosophy, by focusing on personal freedom and individualism. It served as a justification to challenge the regimes at that time and the administrators and citizens embraced the philosophy as a solace to the frustrations they were encountering from domestic and foreign policies between sixties and 1970s (Waugh, 2004 pp. 432). ... Unlike the existentialists who try to understand the events in their life after happening, the relativists expose the events of other people to research and gain knowledge that depict their hereafter events (McLachlan, 2005 pp. 92). Existentialists believe in human free will. They believe that religion, law, society, and ethics do not indentify an individual. They believe that an individual is able to define himself if he violates the norms set by the society and challenges the preset standards. They believe that an individual is at his best when he is struggling against nature and struggling to maintain his life. They are excit ed by challenges and dumbfound pleasure in going against all the preset rules. Existentialists believe that in doing this, they are able to add meaning to what they believe in and also attach meaning to their life since they just do not follow rules without understanding them (Waugh, 2004 pp. 432). However, relativists believe that an individual is defined by the society in which he exists. They believe that rules define the norms of a society and set apart what is right from what is wrong. Besides, they acknowledge the fact that different societies have different rules and regulations and hence respect the diversity that exists in individuals. Relativists do not struggle with life and they believe that life flows with nature and the life of others should be used as a specimen not to furbish up the same mistakes. They have the notion that life should be programmed and should not be haphazard in bid to discover oneself (McLachlan, 2005 pp. 92). Relativists believe in having their own stylus and they do not have the it is my fault mentality. They have the rationale that what they are experiencing is better placed than what