Kierkegaard is an influential figure upon existentialism, particularly Camus, who very apparently was building off of the concept of the absurd that tKierkegaard is an influential figure upon existentialism, particularly Camus, who very apparently was building off of the concept of the absurd that the former discussed in Fear and Trembling. Maybe it relates back to Plato/Socrates' theory of Forms. An ultimately true abstraction which is later considered inaccessible by Hume then Kant, who will go on to explicate a moral structure besides the fact in the nebulous realm of Ethics. Nebulous being the key word as it exists in the transcendental part of experience which is not the thing in itself. Kierkegaard seems to be extending this skepticism, putting focus on the individual, a move that will be made by the Existentialists in bout a century. The absurd exists in between the shadows and the Sun, and it is as much awareness as some people think we can achieve.
I also read the Concept of Anxiety which was not included in this Anthology. There is an interesting quote that people often cite unfinished which starts, "Anxiety is the dizziness of freedom. . ." This is all well and good, but Kierkegaard goes on to say that anxiety actually limits freedom, or "subsides." Simply being anxious does not tell you anything unless you have awareness over it; it could be too meek (innocence or ignorance) or too strong (paralysis or fear). The key is to master anxiety. To know how to use it effectively, to wield it, etcetera. This is interesting. Mediation? Seems like Aristotle. Kierkegaard was notably influenced, often citing the classical philosophers. Albeit making his own path.
I skipped the theological readings. I know they have some good stuff and they tell you about the guy , but I am simply not interested in the metaphysics of Christianity, so it gets really boring. ...more
There's not a lot of ratings for this translation, but it was my first experience with the story. If I ever decide or happen upon a different translatThere's not a lot of ratings for this translation, but it was my first experience with the story. If I ever decide or happen upon a different translation that is better, the rating may go down. As it is, I really enjoy the story, and the translation itself did not inhibit that enjoyment. It is simple, mythical, and intriguing. ...more
