Meaning in Life: Humanism and Existentialism

Presentation by Akiva Quinn on March 26 2024
Humanism is a worldview that embraces the acceptance that-as human beings-we do not have a fixed, essential, given or divinely ordained purpose and must therefore determine life aims for ourselves. Life purpose, goals, projects and meaning in life must all be chosen by individuals and communities. Existentialism is a humanist philosophy highlighting the radical freedom, at the core of human existence, which requires that we choose for ourselves how to live, what life projects are worth undertaking, and the activities, outlook and values that will help us shape a meaningful life. Humanism and existentialism have crucial and profound, indeed foundational, insights to offer in the quest for meaning in life.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER: Akiva Quinn's first, true love-in the realm of ideas-is philosophy, especially the sort of practical wisdom explored in applied ethics, moral, political and social theory or praxis. He studied philosophy and sociology at Monash University and completed an MA there in 2010. Akiva enjoys philosophy and literature, with a focus on meaning and morality, and has co-presented several workshops on life purpose and meaning in life. His other training is in the discipline of computer science and he works in software development where logic and reason also play key roles and meaning can be crafted as well.
NOTE: The views expressed by the speaker are their own and may not necessarily reflect the official position of Humanists Australia.