Existence precedes essence

Jean-Paul Sartre, a prominent existentialist philosopher, explicitly formulated the idea that "existence precedes essence" in his 1945 lecture "Existentialism Is a Humanism." This concept challenges traditional philosophical views by asserting that human beings do not possess any inherent identity or value at birth; instead, they must create their own essence through their actions and choices.

Sartre's existentialism posits that individuals are not born with a fixed nature or predetermined purpose. Instead, it is through their conscious existence and the choices they make that they define themselves and their essence. This idea emphasizes the freedom and responsibility of individuals to shape their own lives and identities.

The notion that existence precedes essence is central to existentialist thought and has influenced various philosophical and literary works. It underscores the importance of personal agency and the creation of meaning in one's life, highlighting the individual's role in defining their own essence and values.