Question

Existentialism is a term applied to the work of a number of 19th- and 20th-century philosophers who, despite profound doctrinal differences, generally held that the focus of philosophical thought should be to deal with the conditions of existence of the individual person and his or her emotions, actions, responsibilities, and thoughts. The early 19th-century philosopher Soren Kierkegaard, posthumously regarded as the father of existentialism, maintained that the individual is solely responsible for giving one’s own life meaning and living that life passionately and sincerely, in spite of many existential obstacles and distractions including despair, angst, absurdity, alienation, and boredom. Subsequent existential philosophers retain the emphasis on the individual, but differ in varying degrees on how one achieves and what constitutes a fulfilling life, what obstacles must be overcome, and what external and internal factors are involved, including the potential consequences of the existence or non-existence of God.

• A. Many existentialists have also regarded traditional systematic or academic philosophy, in both style and content, as too abstract and remote from concrete human experience.
• B. Existentialism became fashionable in the post-World War years as a way to reassert the importance of human individuality and freedom.
• C. Literature and Art have been influenced by Existentialist thoughts for a long time.
• D. Franz Kafka and Albert Camus are regarded as the examples of Pre-World War II and Post-World War II Existentialist views.

Hint:

For philosophical paragraphs, the best ending reinforces the core theme rather than shifting to history, examples, or unrelated details.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the paragraph.
The passage describes core themes of existentialism: focus on the individual, personal responsibility, obstacles of meaning, and the contrast with traditional philosophy. A concluding line should reinforce this contrast.
Step 2: Evaluating the options.
(A) Correct — It directly connects existentialism to its criticism of abstract academic philosophy, reinforcing the core message of the paragraph.
(B) Gives historical context, not a concluding idea.
(C) Talks about influence on art but does not complete the philosophical argument.
(D) Names authors but does not summarize or conclude the ideas presented.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Option (A) logically concludes the philosophical discussion and ties back to the existentialist focus on real human experience.