Top 30 Examples of Existentialism: Definition & Significance

Existentialism, a philosophical movement that emerged in the 20th century, centers on the individual’s experience and responsibility in an inherently uncertain and absurd world. This article explores the essence of existentialism through 30 notable examples, shedding light on its definition and significance. Existentialism contends that existence precedes essence, emphasizing personal freedom and choice. Through a lens of introspection and subjective experience, this philosophical approach challenges traditional notions of meaning and purpose. By examining key instances across literature, film, and real-life scenarios, this compilation aims to elucidate the practical implications and enduring relevance of existentialist thought. Delving into diverse expressions of existentialism, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of this influential philosophical perspective.

What is Existentialism?

Existentialism is a philosophical movement emphasizing individual freedom and choice, asserting that life’s meaning is created by personal decisions. Rooted in 19th and 20th-century European thought, existentialism contends that existence precedes essence, urging individuals to embrace responsibility for their actions. This philosophy rejects predetermined purpose, urging individuals to define their own meaning. Notable existentialist thinkers include Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus. Explore existentialism’s impact on philosophy, literature, and human experience.

Existentialism encourages individuals to confront the inherent absurdity of existence and make authentic choices despite the absence of universal truths. Rejecting traditional norms, existentialists argue for the importance of subjective experience and personal responsibility in navigating life’s challenges.

Existentialist themes often explore the tension between individual freedom and the anxiety that arises from the burden of choice. The concept of “bad faith” is central, highlighting the dangers of self-deception and conformity to societal expectations.

Existentialist ideas have permeated various fields, including literature, art, psychology, and theology. Literary works like Sartre’s “Nausea” and Camus’ “The Stranger” exemplify existentialist principles, challenging readers to grapple with the complexities of human existence.

The Best Examples of Existentialism

1. Jean-Paul Sartre’s “No Exit” (Play)
In Sartre’s existentialist masterpiece, “No Exit,” three characters find themselves in a mysterious room in the afterlife. As they grapple with the absence of physical torture or traditional punishment, they soon realize that hell is, in fact, other people. The play explores the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of one’s actions, embodying Sartre’s famous line, “Hell is other people.”

2. Albert Camus’s “The Stranger” (Novel)
Camus’s novel, “The Stranger,” follows the life of Meursault, an emotionally detached and indifferent protagonist who grapples with the absurdity of life. The narrative unfolds with Meursault’s detached response to events, leading to his eventual condemnation. Through Meursault’s apathy and the novel’s exploration of existential themes, Camus paints a vivid picture of the absurdity and meaninglessness inherent in human existence.

3. Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Notes from Underground” (Novel)
Dostoevsky’s “Notes from Underground” delves into the psyche of an unnamed, alienated narrator. The novel explores themes of free will, consciousness, and the inherent conflict between individual desires and societal expectations. Through the narrator’s introspective and often contradictory monologues, Dostoevsky lays bare the complexities of the human condition, offering a profound exploration of existential angst.

4. Søren Kierkegaard’s “Fear and Trembling” (Philosophical work)
Kierkegaard’s philosophical work, “Fear and Trembling,” grapples with the paradoxes of faith and the ethical implications of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Through the pseudonymous author Johannes de Silentio, Kierkegaard examines the tension between the ethical and the religious, emphasizing the individual’s subjective experience and the existential leap required in matters of faith. The work is a cornerstone in existentialist philosophy, challenging conventional moral norms.

5. Franz Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis” (Novella)
In Kafka’s surreal novella, “The Metamorphosis,” the protagonist, Gregor Samsa, wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a giant insect. The story unfolds as Gregor grapples with his newfound identity and the alienation he experiences from his family. Kafka’s narrative serves as a poignant metaphor for the isolation and absurdity inherent in the human condition, reflecting existential themes of identity, isolation, and the arbitrary nature of life.

6. Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot” (Play)
“Waiting for Godot” is a masterpiece of absurdist existentialism, featuring two characters, Vladimir and Estragon, who pass the time while waiting for someone named Godot. The play explores the futility of human existence, the search for meaning, and the absurdity of repetitive daily life. Beckett’s work challenges traditional theatrical conventions and invites audiences to ponder the purpose of existence in a world that seems devoid of meaning.

7. Jean-Paul Sartre’s “Being and Nothingness” (Philosophical work)
Sartre’s magnum opus, “Being and Nothingness,” delves into existential phenomenology, examining the nature of consciousness, freedom, and the concept of “bad faith.” Sartre argues that individuals are condemned to be free and explores how we create our own essence through our choices. The work intricately dissects the complexities of human existence, offering a philosophical foundation for existentialist thought.

8. Albert Camus’s “The Myth of Sisyphus” (Philosophical essay)
Camus’s philosophical essay, “The Myth of Sisyphus,” confronts the absurdity of life and the human pursuit of meaning in the face of an indifferent universe. Using the Greek myth of Sisyphus condemned to roll a boulder uphill for eternity, Camus explores the concept of revolt against the absurd. The essay reflects on the human capacity to find meaning and purpose in life despite its inherent lack of objective meaning.

9. Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment” (Novel)
Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment” follows the tormented Raskolnikov, who rationalizes committing murder for a perceived greater good. The novel explores the psychological turmoil of guilt, the consequences of moral transgressions, and the search for redemption. Dostoevsky weaves a narrative that delves into the moral complexities of human existence, illustrating the existential consequences of one’s actions on the psyche.

10. Franz Kafka’s “The Trial” (Novel)
“The Trial” by Kafka follows the nightmarish journey of Josef K., who is inexplicably arrested and put on trial for an unknown crime. The novel unfolds as Josef navigates a surreal and absurd bureaucratic legal system, highlighting themes of existential dread, alienation, and the arbitrary nature of authority. Kafka’s work serves as a chilling exploration of the individual’s powerlessness in the face of an indifferent and incomprehensible societal apparatus.

11. Søren Kierkegaard’s “The Sickness Unto Death” (Philosophical work)
“The Sickness Unto Death” by Søren Kierkegaard delves into the existential struggle of the self. Kierkegaard explores the concept of despair and the realization of one’s identity. The work scrutinizes the human condition, asserting that true self-awareness comes from recognizing and confronting the despair inherent in existence. Kierkegaard’s profound philosophical reflections navigate the tension between the finite and infinite, encouraging readers to grapple with the anxiety of authentic selfhood.

12. Albert Camus’s “The Plague” (Novel)
In “The Plague,” Albert Camus uses the metaphor of a deadly epidemic to explore the absurdity of life and the human response to suffering. Set in the fictional town of Oran, the novel examines existential questions in the face of a seemingly senseless and uncontrollable disaster. Through the experiences of the characters, Camus reflects on the human condition, addressing themes of death, meaning, and the absurdity of existence. “The Plague” stands as a poignant existential commentary on the randomness of life and the search for purpose in a world marked by uncertainty.

13. Jean-Paul Sartre’s “Existentialism is a Humanism” (Philosophical essay)
Sartre’s influential essay, “Existentialism is a Humanism,” provides a comprehensive overview of existentialist philosophy. Sartre contends that existence precedes essence, emphasizing individual freedom and responsibility. He explores the implications of a universe without inherent meaning and posits that humans define their essence through choices. Sartre’s work is a rallying call for personal accountability, asserting that individuals are condemned to be free. This essay encapsulates the core tenets of existentialism, urging readers to confront the weight of their decisions in shaping their own existence.

14. Franz Kafka’s “The Castle” (Novel)
“The Castle” by Franz Kafka is a surreal exploration of bureaucracy, alienation, and the elusive nature of authority. The protagonist, K., navigates a nightmarish and absurd world, attempting to gain access to the mysterious Castle. Kafka’s novel captures the existential struggle against a seemingly indifferent and incomprehensible system. As K. grapples with the absurdity of his quest, readers are drawn into a world where the search for meaning becomes a labyrinthine journey, reflecting the existential angst of individuals confronting a bewildering and indifferent universe.

15. Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “The Brothers Karamazov” (Novel)
Dostoevsky’s masterpiece, “The Brothers Karamazov,” delves into the complexities of morality, faith, and the human psyche. The novel revolves around the Karamazov family, exploring the existential struggles of its members. Dostoevsky weaves a narrative that confronts the tension between reason and faith, exploring the consequences of a world without God. Through characters like Ivan, Dmitri, and Alyosha, the novel grapples with the existential consequences of moral choices, pushing the boundaries of philosophical inquiry and psychological depth.

16. Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s “One Hundred Years of Solitude” (Novel)
Marquez’s magical realist epic, “One Hundred Years of Solitude,” unfolds the multi-generational tale of the Buendía family in the fictional town of Macondo. As the narrative weaves through magical and mundane events, existential themes emerge. The characters face the inevitability of solitude, the cyclical nature of history, and the inescapable patterns of human behavior. Marquez’s novel serves as a rich tapestry of existential reflection, blending the extraordinary with the ordinary to illuminate the human condition and the inexorable passage of time.

17. Søren Kierkegaard’s “Either/Or” (Philosophical work)
In “Either/Or,” Kierkegaard presents a dialectical exploration of existence through the lens of aesthetic and ethical life choices. The work offers a profound reflection on the nature of personal freedom, subjective truth, and the consequences of individual decisions. Kierkegaard’s philosophical dialogue challenges readers to confront the complexities of existence, presenting a nuanced exploration of the tension between immediate pleasures and ethical responsibilities. “Either/Or” invites introspection into the choices that shape one’s identity and the existential significance of embracing personal responsibility.

18. Albert Camus’s “Caligula” (Play)
Camus’s play “Caligula” unfolds as a tragic exploration of absolute power and the existential consequences of nihilism. The titular character, Caligula, grapples with the absurdity of life after the death of his sister-lover, seeking to transcend the constraints of a world devoid of meaning. The play delves into the dark recesses of the human psyche, portraying Caligula’s descent into madness as a response to the inherent meaninglessness of existence. Camus confronts the audience with uncomfortable questions about the nature of power, morality, and the pursuit of purpose in a seemingly indifferent universe.

19. Jean-Paul Sartre’s “Nausea” (Novel)
“Nausea” by Sartre is a philosophical novel that follows the experiences of Antoine Roquentin as he grapples with a pervasive feeling of nausea in the face of existence. Roquentin’s existential crisis unfolds in a provincial town, where the mundane becomes a source of profound anxiety. Sartre’s novel captures the essence of existential angst, exploring the alienation and absurdity inherent in everyday life. Through Roquentin’s introspective journey, “Nausea” becomes a poignant exploration of the individual’s confrontation with the inherent meaninglessness of the world.

20. Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “The Idiot” (Novel)
Dostoevsky’s “The Idiot” examines the paradoxes of innocence and wisdom in the character of Prince Myshkin. As a man untainted by the complexities of society, Myshkin navigates a world marked by moral decay and existential despair. The novel explores the consequences of genuine goodness in a world driven by egoism and societal conventions. Dostoevsky’s intricate portrayal of Myshkin’s interactions with a cast of morally ambiguous characters becomes a canvas for exploring existential themes, including the nature of morality, the search for authentic connections, and the inevitable clash between idealism and the harsh realities of human existence.

21. Franz Kafka’s “A Hunger Artist” (Short story)
In “A Hunger Artist,” Kafka delves into the theme of existentialism by exploring the absurdity of human existence. The protagonist, a professional faster, chooses to deprive himself of sustenance as a form of artistic expression. The story raises questions about the meaning of life, the pursuit of personal passion, and the isolation that can arise from non-conformity. Kafka’s narrative challenges conventional societal norms, emphasizing the struggle for individual identity in a world that often fails to comprehend unconventional choices.

22. Samuel Beckett’s “Krapp’s Last Tape” (Play)
“Krapp’s Last Tape” encapsulates existentialist themes through the protagonist Krapp’s introspective journey. Through the use of a tape recorder, Krapp reflects on his past, highlighting the futility of life’s pursuits and the inevitability of aging. Beckett’s play delves into the nature of memory, regret, and the search for meaning in a world where time relentlessly moves forward. The character’s solitude and the poignant exploration of the human condition make “Krapp’s Last Tape” a poignant example of existentialist literature.

23. Søren Kierkegaard’s “The Concept of Anxiety” (Philosophical work)
Kierkegaard’s philosophical exploration in “The Concept of Anxiety” delves into the human experience, particularly the existential angst that accompanies freedom and choice. He examines the anxiety arising from the awareness of one’s own possibilities and the burden of responsibility. Kierkegaard challenges traditional religious and philosophical views, emphasizing the subjective experience of existence and the constant tension between the finite and the infinite.

24. Albert Camus’s “A Happy Death” (Novel)
In “A Happy Death,” Camus explores the meaning of life and the pursuit of happiness through the protagonist, Patrice Mersault. The novel delves into existential questions surrounding the value of individual experiences and choices, portraying a character who seeks to live authentically and embrace the absurdity of existence. Camus’s narrative challenges traditional moral frameworks and invites readers to confront the inevitability of death as an integral part of the human condition.

25. Jean-Paul Sartre’s “The Wall” (Short story)
Sartre’s “The Wall” confronts readers with the existentialist themes of freedom, choice, and the absence of inherent meaning. The story unfolds as three prisoners face imminent execution, forcing them to confront their own mortality. Through the characters’ internal struggles, Sartre illustrates the existentialist idea that individuals are condemned to be free, responsible for shaping their own destinies in a universe devoid of predetermined purpose.

26. Fyodor Dostoevsky’s “The Gambler” (Novel)
“The Gambler” by Dostoevsky explores existential themes through the protagonist Alexei Ivanovich, a young tutor with a compulsive gambling habit. The novel delves into the unpredictability of life, the consequences of impulsive decisions, and the pursuit of personal desires. Dostoevsky’s work reflects the existentialist notion that individuals must confront the consequences of their actions and make choices that define their own existence.

27. Franz Kafka’s “In the Penal Colony” (Short story)
Kafka’s “In the Penal Colony” examines the nature of justice, guilt, and the arbitrary nature of punishment. The story unfolds in a dystopian society where a complex machine enacts gruesome punishments. Through the characters’ interactions, Kafka explores existential themes such as the absurdity of life, the subjective nature of truth, and the isolation that arises from oppressive societal structures.

28. Albert Camus’s “The Fall” (Novel)
In “The Fall,” Camus presents a psychological and philosophical journey through the confessions of the protagonist, Jean-Baptiste Clamence. The novel explores the theme of moral responsibility, the consequences of indifference, and the struggle for authenticity in a world that often lacks inherent meaning. Camus challenges conventional moral frameworks, urging readers to confront their own moral choices and the impact of a seemingly indifferent universe.

29. Søren Kierkegaard’s “Fear and Trembling” (Philosophical work)
Kierkegaard’s “Fear and Trembling” grapples with existentialist themes through the lens of faith and individual responsibility. The philosophical work explores the story of Abraham and Isaac, delving into the ethical implications of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Kierkegaard challenges traditional moral norms, emphasizing the subjective nature of faith and the individual’s quest for authenticity in the face of societal expectations.

30. Samuel Beckett’s “Endgame” (Play)
“Endgame” by Beckett unfolds in a desolate, post-apocalyptic world, exploring themes of nihilism, isolation, and the cyclical nature of existence. The characters, Hamm and Clov, engage in existential conversations that highlight the absurdity of life and the inherent struggle for meaning. Beckett’s play challenges traditional narrative structures, emphasizing the futility of human pursuits and the inevitability of decay and decline.

Key Elements of Existentialism

Existentialism is characterized by several key features that shape its philosophical framework:

Existence precedes essence: One of the fundamental tenets of existentialism is the idea that existence precedes essence. This means that individuals are born without predetermined purposes or essential natures. Unlike objects or things that have a predefined purpose, humans do not have a predetermined essence. Instead, they define themselves through their actions, choices, and experiences. This places a significant emphasis on human freedom and responsibility to shape one’s own existence.
Freedom and Responsibility: Existentialism places a strong emphasis on human freedom. Individuals are seen as radically free to make choices and determine the course of their lives. However, this freedom is not without its challenges. With freedom comes responsibility; individuals are responsible for their choices and must confront the consequences of their actions. This creates a sense of anxiety and anguish as individuals grapple with the weight of their decisions.
Authenticity: Authenticity is a central concept in existentialist thought. It involves living in accordance with one’s true self and values, as opposed to conforming to societal expectations or adopting roles imposed by others. Existentialists argue for the importance of being true to oneself and not succumbing to the pressures of external influences. Authentic living requires self-awareness, introspection, and a willingness to confront the existential angst that may arise from the uncertainties of life.
Existential Anxiety and Despair: Existentialism acknowledges the inevitability of anxiety and despair that arises from the human condition. The awareness of one’s freedom and the responsibility to create meaning in life can lead to existential angst. Confronting the uncertainties and absurdities of existence can evoke feelings of despair. Existentialists argue that acknowledging and facing this anxiety is essential for personal growth and the pursuit of authenticity.
Absurdity: The concept of absurdity, popularized by Albert Camus, highlights the inherent tension between the human desire for meaning and the apparent meaninglessness of the universe. Existentialists argue that individuals must confront the absurdity of life and create their own meaning in the face of a seemingly indifferent or chaotic world. This involves embracing the freedom to define one’s purpose and values despite the lack of inherent meaning.
The Other: Interpersonal relationships and the concept of “the Other” are significant in existentialist philosophy. The presence of others challenges and defines one’s own existence. Relationships can be sources of both fulfillment and conflict, and they play a crucial role in shaping individual identity. The recognition of others as independent, free beings with their own perspectives is essential for understanding the complexities of human existence.

As we can see, existentialism encompasses a range of philosophical ideas, but these key features underscore its emphasis on individual freedom, responsibility, authenticity, and the ongoing struggle to find meaning in a world that may appear inherently devoid of it. Existentialism encourages individuals to confront the challenges of existence with courage and to actively engage in the process of self-discovery and self-definition.

Why is Existentialism Important?

Existentialism is important for several reasons, as it addresses fundamental questions about human existence, freedom, and the search for meaning. Its significance lies in its impact on philosophy, literature, psychology, and even everyday life. Here are some reasons why existentialism is important:

Existentialism challenges traditional and often unquestioned beliefs about morality, meaning, and the purpose of life. It encourages individuals to think critically about these topics and to question societal norms and expectations.
Existentialism places a strong emphasis on individual freedom and the responsibility that comes with it. It reminds us that we have the power to make choices that shape our lives, and this can be empowering.
Existentialism acknowledges the anxiety and alienation that individuals often experience in the modern world. It provides a framework for understanding and dealing with these feelings, offering a sense of validation for those who grapple with such emotions.
Existentialism delves into the nature of being and the questions of existence itself. It encourages individuals to explore their own identities, values, and the meaning of life on a deeply personal level.
Existentialism is not limited to abstract philosophy; it is highly applicable to real-life situations. It offers insights into dilemmas, choices, and ethical questions that people encounter daily.
Existentialism has had a profound impact on literature, theater, film, and other forms of artistic expression. Many influential works of literature and art draw from existentialist themes, helping to shape culture and provoke thought.
Existentialism has contributed to the field of psychotherapy, with existential therapy providing a framework for addressing issues related to meaning, responsibility, and anxiety.
Existentialism delves deeply into the human condition, making it a valuable perspective for those interested in understanding the complexities of human existence, relationships, and the search for purpose.
Existentialism encourages individuals to live authentically, making choices that align with their true values and desires rather than conforming to societal expectations. This promotes a more genuine and fulfilling life.
Existentialist ideas have made important contributions to philosophical thought, including the fields of ethics, ontology, and metaphysics.
Existentialism remains relevant in addressing contemporary issues, such as climate change, political activism, identity, and the impact of technology on human existence.

Existentialism-Based Prominent Figures, Works, and Concepts

Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900): Nietzsche’s works, such as “Thus Spoke Zarathustra” and “Beyond Good and Evil,” laid the groundwork for existential thought with his emphasis on the individual’s will to power and the rejection of traditional morality.

Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855): Often considered the father of existentialism, Kierkegaard’s writings, including “Fear and Trembling” and “The Sickness Unto Death,” delve into the nature of faith, despair, and subjective truth.

Jean-Paul Sartre (1905-1980): Sartre is one of the most iconic existentialist philosophers. His works, such as “Being and Nothingness” and the play “No Exit,” explore themes of freedom, responsibility, and the absurdity of human existence.

Albert Camus (1913-1960): Camus’ novel “The Stranger” and essay “The Myth of Sisyphus” exemplify the absurdity of life and the search for meaning in an indifferent world.

Martin Heidegger (1889-1976): Heidegger’s “Being and Time” is a seminal work in existential phenomenology, emphasizing the individual’s experience of being and the concept of “Dasein.”

Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881): Dostoevsky’s novels, particularly “Notes from Underground” and “Crime and Punishment,” explore the complexities of human existence, free will, and the moral consequences of one’s actions.

Franz Kafka (1883-1924): Kafka’s surreal and nightmarish tales, such as “The Metamorphosis” and “The Trial,” illustrate the absurdity of bureaucracy and the individual’s struggle against an oppressive system.

Jean Genet (1910-1986): Genet’s novel “Our Lady of the Flowers” challenges societal norms and explores the outsider’s experience.

Simone de Beauvoir (1908-1986): De Beauvoir’s “The Second Sex” is a foundational text in feminist existentialism, addressing issues of gender, freedom, and the Other.

Paul Sartre’s Existentialist Cafe (2016): Sarah Bakewell’s book provides a comprehensive exploration of existentialism and its key figures in an accessible and engaging manner.

Hannah Arendt (1906-1975): Arendt’s “The Human Condition” examines the concept of political action and the importance of public space in human existence.

Gabriel Marcel (1889-1973): Marcel’s work on existentialism and the philosophy of existence delves into the nature of intersubjectivity and human relationships.

Maurice Merleau-Ponty (1908-1961): Merleau-Ponty’s phenomenological philosophy, as presented in “Phenomenology of Perception,” emphasizes the role of the body and perception in understanding the world.

Camus’s “The Fall” (1956): This novel explores themes of guilt, judgment, and the human condition through the character of Jean-Baptiste Clamence.

Iris Murdoch (1919-1999): Murdoch’s philosophical novels, such as “The Bell” and “The Black Prince,” grapple with moral and existential questions.

Franz Fanon (1925-1961): Fanon’s “Black Skin, White Masks” and “The Wretched of the Earth” examine the psychological and political implications of colonialism and racism.

Miguel de Unamuno (1864-1936): Unamuno’s “The Tragic Sense of Life” explores the tension between reason and faith, immortality and mortality.

Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World” (1932): This dystopian novel explores the dehumanizing effects of a technologically advanced, pleasure-driven society.

Kafka on the Shore” (2002) by Haruki Murakami: This contemporary novel intertwines elements of magical realism and existentialism to explore the search for identity and meaning.

Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot” (1953): This iconic play illustrates the existential theme of waiting for meaning or salvation in a seemingly meaningless world.

Albert Camus’ “The Plague” (1947): This novel is an allegory for the human condition, as characters face an epidemic that disrupts their lives and forces them to confront their existence.

Kafkaesque (a term derived from Franz Kafka’s works): It describes a situation or experience marked by surreal, absurd, and often bureaucratic complexities.

The Existentialist Philosophy of Film (various films): Films like “Blade Runner,” “Fight Club,” and “The Matrix” grapple with existential themes, including identity, reality, and the search for meaning.

Existential Comics: A webcomic that humorously explores philosophical ideas and concepts, often featuring famous existentialist philosophers.

Existential Psychotherapy: Developed by psychologists like Irvin D. Yalom and Viktor E. Frankl, this approach integrates existential philosophy into therapy, helping individuals explore their life’s meaning and purpose.

Existentialist Art: Artists like Edward Hopper and Alberto Giacometti have been associated with existential themes in their work, portraying feelings of isolation, alienation, and the human condition.

Krzysztof Kieślowski’s “Three Colors” trilogy (1993-1994): These films explore themes of liberty, equality, and fraternity, and the impact of personal choices on one’s life.

Existentialism in Music: Some musicians, like Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen, have infused their lyrics with existentialist themes, addressing questions of identity, love, and mortality.

Existentialism in Literature: Many contemporary authors continue to explore existential themes in their works, examining the complexities of modern life and the search for meaning.

Existentialism in Popular Culture: Existentialist ideas often permeate modern pop culture, from songs and films to television series, reflecting society’s ongoing fascination with these philosophical concepts.