The Ethics of Ambiguity
In "The Ethics of Ambiguity," Simone de Beauvoir explores the complexities of human existence and the concept of freedom within the context of existentialism. She argues that ambiguity is an inherent part of life, and true ethics emerges from recognizing and embracing this ambiguity while advocating for the freedom and responsibility of both the self and others. The book emphasizes the necessity of engaging with the world and others in a way that acknowledges their freedom, fostering authentic relationships and moral action.
29 curated highlights from this book
Key Insights & Memorable Quotes
Below are the most impactful passages and quotes from The Ethics of Ambiguity, carefully selected to capture the essence of the book.
Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does.
The one who is truly free is the one who is free to choose.
To will oneself free is to will oneself as a subject that transcends itself.
We are all free, and we are all responsible.
The ambiguity of our situation is what makes us human.
A man is not what he thinks he is, he is what he hides.
Freedom is not a given; it is something we must achieve.
The essence of freedom is to have choices.
Ambiguity is the foundation of human existence.
We must choose ourselves, as we are the ones responsible for our own existence.
One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman.
The ambiguous nature of man reveals itself in the fact that he is both the subject and the object of his own action.
To will oneself free is to negate the other.
In order to be oneself, one must be recognized by others.
The fact that we are free does not mean that we are free to do anything.
Ambiguity is the very essence of the human condition.
Choice is the essence of what it means to be human.
To act is to create a value.
The freedom of others is necessary for my freedom.
We must choose ourselves; once we have chosen we are responsible for ourselves.
Freedom is the source of all meaning.
To will oneself free is to will oneself a task.
The ambiguity of being is the source of all our dilemmas.
The other is the condition of my freedom.
To be human is to be in relation.
One must choose oneself; one must create oneself.
Ambiguity is the fundamental quality of human existence.
We are condemned to be free.
Man is a useless passion.