That is the idea I shall try to convey when I say that man…
““That is the idea I shall try to convey when I say that man is condemned to be free. Condemned, because he did not create himself, yet, in other respects is free; because, once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does. The existentialist does not believe in the power of passion. He will never agree that a sweeping passion is a ravaging torrent which fatally leads a man to certain acts and is therefore an excuse. He thinks that man is responsible for his passion.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Sartre argues that humans are forced into freedom because they did not choose their existence; they must own responsibility for their actions and passions, rejecting excuses based on uncontrollable forces.
In simple terms: Man is free and responsible, even though he didn’t choose to exist.
Key Takeaway
Accept responsibility for your choices and passions.
Themes
freedom
responsibility
existentialism
agency
authenticity
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- making decisions
- facing consequences
- living authentically
Key Concepts
determinism
self‑creation
moral accountability
Questions to Reflect On
- What freedoms do you truly have?
- How do you balance personal responsibility with external pressures?
A Different Perspective
The claim may ignore structural constraints that limit true freedom.