Living with Sisyphus

Author: Grover, Kshitij

Year: 2017

Degree: Other

Advisor: Unknown, Unknown

Committee Member: Unknown, Unknown

Option: Philosophy

DOI: 10.7907/AEES-Y231

Abstract

My aim in this paper will be to get a grip on the absurdist reply to, "What is the meaning of life? How should we live well?". Absurdism, related to pessimism, holds that the world is generally meaningless or purposeless. Specifically, I will provide a detailed exposition of Albert Camus' absurdist philosophy as detailed in The Myth of Sisyphus. I will then aim to present three arguments against Camus' existentialist methodology by examining his principle assumptions, pointing out contradictions in his account, and finally rejecting his normative recommendations. Finally, I will briefly advocate for some accounts that allow us to create meaning in our lives following a combination of subjective well being and eudaimonia.