Soren Kierkegaard, the father of existentialism, reshaped modern philosophy with reflections on faith, despair, and individual truth. Writing in 19th-century Denmark, he championed personal responsibility and the leap of faith. Though often misunderstood in his time, his insights continue to guide seekers of purpose and authenticity. Kierkegaard’s life proves that deep thought and courage to question can illuminate paths for generations.
"People understand me so poorly that they don't even understand my complaint about them not understanding me."
"Satan's despair is absolute because Satan, as pure spirit, is pure consciousness, and for Satan (and all men in his predicament) every increase in consciousness is an increase in despair."
"The difference between an admirer and a follower still remains, no matter where you are. The admirer never makes any true sacrifices. He always plays it safe. Though in words, phrases, songs, he is inexhaustible about how highly he prizes Christ, he renounces nothing, gives up nothing, will not reconstruct his life, will not be what he admires, and will not let his life express what it is he supposedly admires."
"People settle for a level of despair they can tolerate and call it happiness."
"Now, it is of course well known that Christ continually uses the expression 'imitators.' He never says that he asks for admirers, adoring admirers, adherents; and when he uses the expression 'follower' he always explains it in such a way that one perceives that 'imitators' is meant by it, that is not adherents of a teaching but imitators of a life...."