Single Idea 16001

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / F. Existentialism / 7. Existential Action]

Full Idea

Philosophy is perfectly right in saying that life must be understood backwards. But then it forgets the other side - that it must be lived forwards.

Gist of Idea

Life may be understood backwards, but it has to be lived forwards

Source

Søren Kierkegaard (The Journals of Kierkegaard [1850], JP-III, 635)

Book Reference

Kierkegaard,Søren: 'Journals and Papers Vol. 1', ed/tr. Hong,Howard/Edna [Princeton ], p.450


A Reaction

Some of the best philosophers dwell too much on philosophy, history and the past, while forgetting to actually live and enjoy their lives. [SY]