Soren Kierkegaard

Date of Birth: May 5, 1813

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: November 11, 1855

Biography

Søren Aabye Kierkegaard was a Danish philosopher, theologian, poet, social critic, and religious author who is widely considered to be the first existentialist philosopher. Born in Copenhagen, Denmark, Kierkegaard’s work primarily dealt with Christian ethics, the institution of the Church, and the individual’s subjective relationship with God. He criticized the empty formalities of the Church of Denmark and emphasized personal faith and commitment. Kierkegaard was a prolific writer, and his works include “Either/Or,” “Fear and Trembling,” and “The Sickness Unto Death.” His writings explore complex themes such as anxiety, despair, and the existential struggles of the self. Kierkegaard did not achieve widespread recognition during his lifetime, but posthumously, his influence grew significantly, affecting not only philosophy but also theology, literature, and psychology.

5 Interesting Facts about Soren Kierkegaard

1. Søren Kierkegaard is often regarded as the “father of existentialism.”

2. He was engaged to Regine Olsen, but he broke off the engagement, believing his existential journey required solitude.

3. Kierkegaard’s father, Michael Pedersen Kierkegaard, had a profound impact on his religious views and writings.

4. He wrote many of his works under various pseudonyms, each representing different viewpoints and aspects of his thought.

5. Kierkegaard’s works were not widely read during his lifetime, but they gained significant influence in the 20th century, impacting figures like Jean-Paul Sartre and Martin Heidegger.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Soren Kierkegaard

1. “Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.”

2. “The function of prayer is not to influence God, but rather to change the nature of the one who prays.”

3. “People demand freedom of speech as a compensation for the freedom of thought which they seldom use.”

4. “Anxiety is the dizziness of freedom.”

5. “To dare is to lose one’s footing momentarily. Not to dare is to lose oneself.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Søren Kierkegaard did not accumulate significant wealth during his lifetime. His financial situation was largely modest, relying on a family inheritance.