I’ve always seen existentialism as being cut up into three parts, wherein the premise “existence precedes essence” is constant:
Humanistic Existentialism – “Existence precedes essence SO essence should be determined by the individual whom is contingent upon freedom and responsibility.” Attributed to Sartre.
Theistic Existentialism – “Existence precedes essence SO essence should be determined by a leap in faith, particularly faith in God.” Attributed to Kierkegaard.
Nihilistic Existentialism – “Existence precedes essence SO essence should be determined by nature and context (i.e. the human nature, the human context, the contexts of cultures, etc.).” Attributed to Nietzsche.
I’m sure they all can agree on their premises which renders any of the three ‘paths’ just as valid as the others.
What do you think of this categorization? I feel existentialism as it is generally perceived today isn’t consistent in its change from philosopher to philosopher. As such, i don’t think Kierkegaard’s existentialism can be fully compatible with Sartre’s existentialism.