Existence Precedes Essence
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
Humans have no preset 'purpose' or 'destiny' (essence). Humans first come into the world (existence), and then through their choices and actions, they define who they are (essence).
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
- Absolute freedom: Do not say 'I am introverted, so I cannot do sales.' That is self-deception. You are free; your current choices determine who you are. No excuses, only responsibility.
Anchor fast decisions
Humans have no innate 'essence/purpose'; they exist first and then define themselves through choices and actions. This means freedom and responsibility are inseparable: there is no predetermined destiny to use as an excuse. Bad faith (mauvaise foi) is using 'nature' to evade choice.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/1Practice this model in one real situation:
account_treeGenealogyexpand_more
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Existence_precedes_essenceverified
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