Freedom and Responsibility in Jean-Paul Sartre's Existentialist Philosophy: A Christian Personalist Critique

Abstract

This paper embarks on a substantive intellectual journey to dissect the philosophical underpinnings of Jean-Paul Sartre's existentialism, with a particular focus on the symbiotic relationship between freedom and responsibility. The paper utilizes a multi-faceted analytical framework to scrutinize the ontological and ethical dimensions of Sartre's conceptualization of freedom, its inherent connection to human responsibility, and the resultant ethical quandaries. By expanding the scope of discourse, the paper introduces a meticulous critique from the vantage point of Christian Personalism. This counter-perspective serves not only as a critique but also as a platform for dialogue, elucidating points of convergence and divergence between existentialist and personalist philosophies. Beyond mere theoretical examination, the paper illuminates the contemporary relevance and application of these philosophical traditions, especially in grappling with pressing ethical, social, and political issues. Concluding with a richly textured comparative analysis, the paper aims to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing scholarly discourse on existentialism and personalism, thereby enriching our collective understanding of complex philosophical constructs like freedom, responsibility, and human dignity.