Open forum and organically guided discussion focused on the reconciliation of the existential givens. The five existential givens, often discussed in existential philosophy and psychology, refer to fundamental aspects of human existence that individuals must confront. These are:
-
Death- The inevitability of death prompts individuals to consider the meaning of life and their mortality.
-
Freedom- The awareness of personal freedom highlights the responsibility of making choices and the consequences that come with them.
-
Isolation- The recognition that individuals are ultimately alone in their experiences and must confront their own existence can lead to feelings of loneliness and the search for connection.
-
Meaninglessness- The struggle to find meaning in life, especially in the face of suffering and chaos, challenges individuals to create their own purpose.
-
Identity- The quest for self-understanding and authenticity as individuals navigate societal expectations and personal desires.
These givens can lead to anxiety, but they also provide opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and personal development.
