Being and Nothingness

How can existentialism be viewed as a response to Marxism? How did Sartre reconcile his existentialism with his adherence to the doctrines of socialism and communism in the face of World War II and Stalinism?

What roles do dualities play in existentialism? Sartre claims to reject dualities throughout Being and Nothingness. Are the theories presented in Sartrean existentialism dependent or independent of duality?

What is Sartre’s justification for the meaninglessness or absurdity of life? Do you agree with this justification? Why or why not?

Some argue that French philosophy has failed to maintain its relevance in the modern conversation. One of the criticisms is that the tradition of French philosophy relies on an adherence to universal truths that are no longer pertinent in a society that embraces myriad conceptions of the world. Does existentialism align with this quality of universal truth? Does existentialism still have a place in contemporary philosophical debate? Why or why not?

One criticism of existentialism is that an intense focus on individuality undermines ethics, morality, and the drive for the common good. Does existentialism encourage immorality? Can there be a common good within existentialism? What role do ethics play in the quest for an individual authentic life?

How do Sartre’s style and philosophies evolve in Essentialism is a Humanism compared to Being and Nothingness? What is the reason for, and/or purpose of, this evolution?

Where do Sartre’s philosophies on being and the contemporary science of consciousness converge? For example, how could his philosophies about cogito relate to current research about the intelligence of animals other than humans?

What advice would you give someone who wants to live an authentic life? What advice would existentialists provide? What advice would scholars in other philosophical movements offer?