What are two major works of Kierkegaard?

Søren Kierkegaard’s voluminous works, many of which were pseudonymous, included Either/Or (1843), Fear and Trembling (1844), Philosophical Fragments (1844), The Concept of Anxiety (1844), Stages on Life’s Way (1845), Concluding Unscientific Postscript (1846), Sickness unto Death (1849), and Training in Christianity ( …

Why is Kierkegaard important?

The philosophy of Søren Kierkegaard has been a major influence in the development of 20th-century philosophy, especially existentialism and postmodernism. One of Kierkegaard’s recurrent themes is the importance of subjectivity, which has to do with the way people relate themselves to (objective) truths.

What should I start with Kierkegaard?

In general, if you just want to get a basic “What is considered ‘Kierkegaard’ by most people?” sense of his works, always begin with Fear and Trembling. It is his most popular work by far and with good reason–Sartre learned Danish seemingly just to read it despite him claiming it was to read Kierkegaard.

What should I read of Kierkegaard?

Fear and Trembling is always a go-to for academics to get an introduction to Kierkegaard. It’s nice because it’s compact, is relatively straightforward, and has a lot of discussion around it which you can easily access online. Most folks, for better or worse, have exposure to K through this work.

How is Kierkegaard relevant today?

Kierkegaard’s Socratic approach is still relevant because of its focus on the individual. Each of us feels the need for purpose. What Kierkegaard, and Socrates, teach us, is that this purpose can be gained only by our choices, our actions, the way we live our lives.

What is the most striking idea you encountered in phenomenology and existentialism?

Perhaps his best known philosophical point is “existence precedes essence.” In the case of non-human entities, an essence is something that is prior to somethings actual existence. A table’s essence is the intention that its creator, builder, or user has for it, such as its general shape, components, and function.