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For
Kierkegaard, truth is a subjective reality which we must
live, not simply something to consider and discuss. His
self-consciousness and self-examination highlight the practical
demands of existence, and he opposes the speculative thinking
of philosophical idealists (especially Hegel).
Kierkegaard
urges the reader to commit to make choices about
how to live. In Either/Or, he concentrates on sensual
indulgence versus duty, the avant garde versus tradition.
Fear & Trembling dramatically distinguishes between
ethical and religious existence, based on the biblical story
of Abraham. We must choose to be a "knight of infinite
resignation" (giving up hope for this life). Kierkegaard
says much of life's meaning depends not on external conditions,
but on our internal choices about relating to them.
Kierkegaard
urges us to live with purpose, to see life as an intentional
act rather than a series of meaningless events. Our task is
not knowing but doing, not understanding but living. He criticizes
intellectualism and escapism in favor of believing and committing.
In
Sickness Unto Death, Kierkegaard diagnoses a spiritual
disease throughout society: despair. We are estranged from the
source of our very being as we try to escape the moral responsibility
of the self. We must decide whether or not to embrace faith
in "paradoxical religion," even if its teachings offend
our reason.
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