This is the heart of existentialism. For a manufactured object like a letter opener, the "essence" (its purpose) comes before its "existence" (the physical object). But for humans, we just exist first. There is no pre-written script or divine plan for who we are; we must create our own essence through every choice we make. 3. Radical Freedom and Anguish

Because we are "nothingness" (meaning we aren't fixed like objects), we are . However, this freedom isn't a gift—it’s a burden. Sartre describes anguish as the moment we realize that nothing prevents us from making a different choice and that we are entirely responsible for our lives. 4. The Trap of "Bad Faith" ( Mauvaise Foi ) Jean Paul Sartre Being And Nothingness

: This refers to objects—like a rock or a chair. They are what they are; they have a fixed essence, no consciousness, and no ability to change their nature.

If you've ever felt that life has no inherent meaning and that you are "condemned to be free," you're already vibing with Sartre. Here is an informative breakdown of his core ideas. 1. The Two Modes of Being