Søren Kierkegaard's Existential Inquiry: Freedom, Responsibility, and Individuality

Søren Kierkegaard (May 5, 1813 - November 11, 1855) is one of the significant figures in the intellectual world of the 19th century, known as a Danish philosopher and theologian. Kierkegaard is particularly recognized for his work in the areas of existentialism and Christian thought. Here are general details about Kierkegaard's life, thoughts, and impact:

Life: Søren Aabye Kierkegaard was born in Copenhagen, Denmark, as the son of a wealthy merchant. After his father's death, he developed an interest in religious and philosophical matters under the influence of his mother.
Kierkegaard studied theology at the University of Copenhagen but chose not to pursue an academic career after graduation.


Thought and Philosophical Approach: Kierkegaard's thought is often associated with "existentialism" and "irrationalism." Existentialism focuses on individual freedom, responsibility, and understanding one's own existence. Kierkegaard emphasized individual choices in personal and religious life. Kierkegaard explored the existential meaning of human existence and the relationship between Christianity and the individual. According to him, true religiousness was connected to personal experience and sincere beliefs.

Works: Key works include "Fear and Trembling," "The Concept of Anxiety," and "Either/Or," which delve deep into Kierkegaard's thoughts. His pseudonymous works allowed Kierkegaard to express different perspectives and engage readers in their thought processes.

Influence: Kierkegaard's ideas had a significant impact, especially on 20th-century existentialism and the philosophy of religion. Thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre, Martin Heidegger, and Karl Barth were greatly influenced by him. His works challenged traditional understandings in Christian thought and contributed to a transformation in religious philosophy. Søren Kierkegaard is recognized as an important figure in both philosophical and religious thought, leaving a profound impact on modern thinking.


Søren Kierkegaard's thoughts have been nourished by a wide range of philosophical and theological influences. Here are some important figures who have influenced Kierkegaard's thinking: Jesus and Christian Theology: The foundation of Kierkegaard's thoughts lies in Christianity. Particularly, Kierkegaard's theological approach emphasizes Jesus' teachings and personal belief, forming the basis of his philosophy.

G.W.F. Hegel: Hegel was a philosopher who had a significant influence on Kierkegaard during his youth. However, Kierkegaard eventually opposed Hegel's systematic and universalistic approach. The concepts of "irony" and the "transcendent" emerged as critical reactions to Hegel's thinking.

Friedrich Wilhelm Joseph Schelling: Kierkegaard was influenced by Schelling's philosophical ideas, but he also critiqued Schelling's idealistic system. Emphasizing individual freedom and existential meaning, Kierkegaard stood against Schelling's universal approach.

Socrates: Kierkegaard was influenced by Socrates' ironic method and questioning style. Kierkegaard's use of pseudonyms to write from different perspectives and guide readers into thinking reflects similarities with Socrates' teaching method.

Augustine (Saint Augustine): Kierkegaard was influenced by Saint Augustine, an important figure in Christian thought. Concepts like personal belief and sin in Kierkegaard's works are reflections of Augustine's writings.

Friedrich Schleiermacher: Kierkegaard was influenced by Schleiermacher's theological approach that focused on religious feelings and experiences. However, Kierkegaard opposed Schleiermacher's universal approach, arguing that religious experience should be lived in a personal and unique dimension.

Johann Georg Hamann: Kierkegaard was influenced by Johann Georg Hamann's thinking. Hamann emphasized the importance of language and personal belief. This influence might have shaped Kierkegaard's mastery in using language and irony. While Kierkegaard was under the influence of these thinkers, he developed his own original and radical philosophical stance. His thoughts have stood out in areas such as individual freedom, existential meaning, and the individual relationship with Christianity.


Søren Kierkegaard has brought a significant breath to philosophy, especially in the field of existentialist thought. Kierkegaard's thoughts have influenced the development of many philosophical movements, particularly contributing to the existentialist movement of the 20th century. Here are some key contributions that Kierkegaard has made to philosophy:

Existentialism: Kierkegaard's thoughts laid the foundation for the existentialist movement. Existentialism, focusing on individual existential freedom, responsibility, and understanding one's own existence, is based on Kierkegaard's emphasis on individual experience and unique life concepts.

Human Freedom and Responsibility: Kierkegaard emphasized human freedom and the responsibility that comes with it. The idea that individuals exist through their own choices is a cornerstone of Kierkegaard's philosophy. This requires individuals to take personal responsibility to give meaning to their own lives.


Religion and Faith: Kierkegaard's thoughts highlight the effects of religion, especially Christianity, on the individual. According to him, true religiousness is connected to personal experience, and the sincerity of an individual's beliefs is crucial.

Irony and Pseudonyms: Kierkegaard used various pseudonyms in his works to write from different perspectives. This method aimed to convey his thoughts in a deeper and more layered way, encouraging readers to engage in the thought process. This approach has been particularly influential in the development of postmodern thought.

Critique of Universality: Kierkegaard criticized the prevalent universalism and systematic thought of his time. By rejecting G.W.F. Hegel's universal system, he emphasized the unique existence of the individual and argued that concepts should be connected to real life.


Role of Language: Emphasizing the importance of language and rhetoric, Kierkegaard argued that language is not only a means of conveying information but also a tool for expressing an individual's emotions, experiences, and beliefs. This perspective has had an impact on the philosophy of language and semiotics. Kierkegaard's thoughts have contributed to the development of philosophical thinking on topics such as individual freedom, responsibility, religion, faith, and the critique of universality. Additionally, his methods of irony and using pseudonyms are considered foundational to postmodern thought. Existentialist thinking, especially strengthened in the 20th century, owes much to Kierkegaard's influence.