Why is suicide accorded a central place in existentialist philosophy?
A) Because awareness of one's responsibility for one's life enables one to confront life and death
B) Because existentialism has an inherently pessimistic point of view that sees suicide as a viable alternative to overwhelming demands
C) Because existentialists believe that all humans actively gravitate toward self-destruction
D) Because one cannot enjoy life without entertaining thoughts of the paradoxical condition of death

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Suicide is accorded a central place in existentialist philosophy because existentialists believe in the individual's responsibility for their life and choices. Being aware of this responsibility can help individuals confront the ultimate reality of life and death. Existentialists do not necessarily believe that humans gravitate towards self-destruction or that suicide is a viable alternative to overwhelming demands. While they do recognize the paradoxical nature of life and death, they do not suggest that one cannot enjoy life without entertaining thoughts of death.

Why Is Suicide Accorded a Central Place in Existentialist Philosophy