Fear and Trembling; Diapsalmata; In Vino Veritas (The Banquet); Preparation for a Christian Life
Søren Kierkegaard, a pioneering Danish philosopher of the 19th century, is celebrated for his existentialist thought, which emphasizes individual subjectivity and personal commitment. Central to Kierkegaard’s philosophy is the concept of the "leap of faith," articulated in his work Fear and Trembling, where he explores the nature of true faith through the biblical story of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac. Such faith involves a personal, irrational commitment that transcends rationality and societal norms. His work delves into existential anxiety and despair, highlighting how individuals confront the weight of their freedom and responsibility. Kierkegaard’s critique of Hegelianism underscores his belief that abstract philosophical systems fail to address the deep, personal dimensions of human existence. His emphasis on individual experience, subjective truth, and the importance of personal choice influenced existentialist philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Friedrich Nietzsche, while his exploration of faith and personal commitment also had a profound impact on Christian existentialism and modern theological thought.
