Juozas Girnius was a Lithuanian philosopher and writer, born in 1907. He is considered one of the most significant figures in Lithuanian existentialist thought. Girnius’s existentialism, like other existentialist philosophies, explores questions related to the meaning of life, the nature of existence, and the human condition. However, Girnius’s take on existentialism is unique in that it is heavily influenced by his Lithuanian heritage and the country’s history. In this essay, I will discuss Juozas Girnius’s existentialism, its key features, and its relevance in the contemporary world.
Girnius’s existentialism begins with the premise that human existence is fundamentally absurd. Life is meaningless, and there is no inherent purpose to it. As such, the individual must create their own meaning, and this requires taking responsibility for their own life. Girnius argues that this responsibility cannot be avoided, as it is an essential part of the human condition. In his view, human beings are free agents who have the power to shape their lives according to their will.
However, this freedom comes with a heavy burden. It means that individuals must accept the consequences of their actions and the choices they make. This includes both the positive and negative outcomes. Girnius argues that individuals cannot simply blame external circumstances or other people for their lives. Instead, they must take ownership of their choices and their lives, even if this means accepting the painful realities of existence.
One of the key features of Girnius’s existentialism is his emphasis on the importance of history and culture. He argues that human beings are not born into a blank slate but rather inherit a cultural heritage and a historical context. This context shapes their identity and their understanding of the world. As such, Girnius believes that individuals cannot fully understand themselves or the world around them without an appreciation of their cultural and historical context.
Girnius’s existentialism is also notable for its emphasis on the concept of ‘dualism.’ He argues that human beings are both physical and spiritual beings, and there is an inherent tension between these two aspects of the self. The physical body is finite, and it will eventually die, but the spiritual aspect is infinite and eternal. This creates a sense of conflict within the individual, as they must navigate the tension between the physical and spiritual aspects of their existence.
For Girnius, this tension is not something to be resolved but rather embraced. He argues that individuals must recognize the duality within themselves and accept it as an essential part of their being. This requires a kind of existential courage, as individuals must confront their mortality and accept the impermanence of their physical existence.
Another important aspect of Girnius’s existentialism is his emphasis on the importance of art and literature. He argues that these forms of expression are essential for individuals to connect with their cultural heritage and to explore the meaning of existence. Through art and literature, individuals can engage with the great questions of human existence and gain a deeper understanding of their place in the world.
Finally, Girnius’s existentialism emphasizes the importance of community and social responsibility. He argues that individuals cannot fully realize their potential without meaningful connections to others. This requires a willingness to engage with others and to take responsibility for the well-being of the community. In his view, the individual must find a balance between their own individuality and their social responsibility.