Existentialism

The word entered Turkish from the French term existentialisme, meaning "existentialism", "existential philosophy", or "way of life". This term was formed in French by adding the suffix "-ism" to existence (meaning existence or presence). The French word itself derives from the Latin exsistentia, which carries the same meaning. The Latin term originates from the verb exsistere, meaning "to emerge, to appear, to be". The root of this verb consists of the prefix "ex+" meaning "outward" and the verb sistere (stat-), meaning "to stand, to stand firm, to be steadfast".

• Philosophical Use: It occupies a central position in 20th century European philosophy as a discipline addressing themes such as individual freedom, authentic living, anxiety, absurdity, and death.
• Literary Use: It serves as a fundamental framework for depicting characters’ inner conflicts, personal responsibilities, and processes of alienation in novels and theatrical works.
• Psychology and Psychotherapy: It provides a foundation for therapeutic approaches such as "existential analysis" or "logotherapy", which are built on the individual’s search for meaning in life and their free will.
• Sociocultural Use: It is referenced in social movements or lifestyle analyses that question the influence of social institutions and traditional morality on the individual, while advocating personal independence and uniqueness.