What Defines Our Existence?

Social Science 43 · April 4, 2026

“Existence precedes essence.”
— Jean-Paul Sartre

Undeniably, we all think, we all feel, and we all exist. However, we all have something beyond that sort of existence that sets us apart from objects, or animals for that matter. Truthfully, we can’t definitively explain this thing, but it brings us these abilities. The ability to know ourselves as an individual, rather than being limited to a citizen of the human race. However, we all are citizens of the human race. We are all unique, and see ourselves more clearly than everyone else. But we are all part of something. So is our existence defined by who we are, or what we are?

It is in our ability to define our purpose. As individuals, the value of ourselves should be predominant. However, we should not forget that everyone around us is a version of ourselves. They are all people who can think, and judge based on their own perspective. It is important to recognize that we are the same down to the origin of being. I’ve mentioned before that we are meant to unite as one in order to accomplish. Along with this, I’ve mentioned that we have our own role. So this truly poses the question: what defines our existence?

The answer is this: our existence is neither defined by who we are, nor what we are. It is defined by us recognizing that we are part of a whole, but have our perfect, individual role. We are all necessary in this world, and no one is more necessary than another. We exist equally, but excel separately. Thank you for reading Social Science 43, and have a phenomenal day.

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