Citation

Pölzler T. Allgemeine Zeitschrift fur Philosophie 2016; 41(1): 59-76.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016)

DOI

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PMID

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Abstract

In his novel The Stranger, his play Caligula and in particular his essay The Myth of Sisyphus Albert Camus developed a first Version of what he called a "logic of the absurd". According to this idea, human existence is characterized by a tension between our longing for meaning and a world which continuously disappoints this longing. The right way to respond to this recognition is claimed not to be suicide or giving up one 's longing for meaning. Rather, Camus recommends an attitude of permanent revolt. In my article I explore the soundness of this early "logic of the absurd". It will turn out that as long as one reads Camus' claims in the way he mainly seems to have intended them - as applying to all persons and as being objectively valid - they are implausible. In order to exploit theirfull potential one must rather reinterpret them psychologically. Camus shows how we can live a life of happiness and dignity despite our being unable to reach meaning.

Language: en