I've recently discovered absurdist philosophy. Can anyone suggest a good primer/survey on the subject?
2006-12-03 04:05:57 · 4 answers · asked by hot carl sagan: ninja for hire 5 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
Absurdism is a philosophy stating that the efforts of humanity to find meaning in the universe will ultimately fail because no such meaning exists (at least in relation to humanity).
Absurdism is related to Existentialism, though should not be confused with it. Absurdism has its roots in the 19th century Danish philosopher, Søren Kierkegaard. Absurdism as an "ism" was born of the Existentialist movement when the French philosopher and writer Albert Camus broke from that philosophical line of thought and published his manuscript The Myth of Sisyphus. The aftermath of World War II provided the social environment that stimulated absurdist views and allowed for their popular development, especially in the devastated country of France.
2006-12-03 04:09:44 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
"Crazy Wisdom" by Wes Nisker is excellent, fun, easy to read, and yet highly thought-provoking. It puts absurdist philosophy into context with other closely related philosophies, such as Zen buddhism, some American Indian beliefs, and some concepts that defy categorization.
On the more practical side, "Management of the Absurd", by Richard Farson, is an excellent book for any manager in the business world. It's full of irreverent truths that really work.
2006-12-03 04:46:40 · answer #2 · answered by HarryTikos 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check out the work of Eugene Ionesco.
2006-12-03 16:49:06 · answer #3 · answered by bicyclesforeveryone 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
To underpin and expand your knowledge, google 'Albert Camus absurd' - existentialist, but there are similarities.
2006-12-03 04:15:45 · answer #4 · answered by MissRemorse 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋