You can always make something out of what you have been made into." Critically discuss this statement by Sartre with reference to his views on existentialism.

Sartre’s Core Existentialist Tenets

To understand the statement, it’s crucial to grasp Sartre’s foundational ideas. These include:

• Existence Precedes Essence: Unlike traditional philosophies that assume a pre-existing human nature, Sartre argued that humans first exist and then define themselves through their actions. There is no inherent ‘human essence’ waiting to be discovered.
• Radical Freedom: Sartre believed humans are “condemned to be free.” This means we are entirely responsible for our choices, with no external forces dictating our actions. Even choosing not to choose is a choice.
• Responsibility: This freedom comes with immense responsibility. Because we define ourselves through our choices, we are responsible not only for ourselves but, in a sense, for all of humanity, as our choices create a model for how humans should act.
• Anguish (Angoisse): The awareness of our radical freedom and responsibility leads to anguish, a feeling of profound anxiety and uncertainty.
• Bad Faith (Mauvaise Foi): This refers to the self-deception where individuals deny their freedom and responsibility, often by pretending to be determined by external factors or social roles.

Explaining the Statement: “You can always make something out of what you have been made into.”

The statement directly reflects Sartre’s belief in the plasticity of human existence. “What you have been made into” refers to the ‘facticity’ of our existence – the given conditions we find ourselves in: our past, our genetics, our social circumstances, and the historical context. Sartre doesn’t deny the influence of these factors. However, he insists that they do not determine us. We are not simply products of our past or our environment.

The phrase “make something out of” signifies the power of ‘transcendence’ – our ability to project ourselves into the future and create meaning. Through our choices, we transcend our facticity and define our essence. A person born into poverty, for example, is not destined to remain in poverty. They can choose to pursue education, develop skills, and strive for a different life. Similarly, someone who has experienced trauma can choose to heal, grow, and find meaning in their experiences.

Critical Analysis: Strengths and Limitations

The statement’s strength lies in its empowering message of human agency. It rejects determinism and affirms the possibility of self-creation. It resonates with individuals facing challenging circumstances, offering hope and a sense of control. However, the statement is not without its critics.

• Ignoring Structural Constraints: Critics argue that Sartre’s emphasis on individual freedom overlooks the significant impact of social structures, economic inequalities, and systemic oppression. While individuals can make choices, those choices are often constrained by circumstances beyond their control. For example, a person born into a deeply discriminatory society may face insurmountable obstacles regardless of their choices.
• The Problem of Evil: If we are entirely responsible for our choices, how do we account for evil actions? Sartre’s response is that even evil choices are freely made, and the individual bears full responsibility. This can be a difficult concept to accept, as it seems to absolve external factors from contributing to harmful behavior.
• The Role of the Unconscious: Psychological theories, particularly those of Freud, suggest that much of our behavior is driven by unconscious motivations. Sartre largely dismissed the unconscious, arguing that it is simply a way of avoiding responsibility.

Furthermore, the statement can be interpreted as placing an unrealistic burden on individuals. The constant need to create meaning and take responsibility for one’s existence can be exhausting and anxiety-inducing. Sartre acknowledged this anguish, but critics argue that he did not adequately address the psychological toll of radical freedom.

Examples and Applications

Consider the life of Nelson Mandela. Imprisoned for 27 years for his opposition to apartheid, Mandela faced immense hardship and injustice. However, he refused to be defined by his circumstances. He chose to maintain his dignity, advocate for reconciliation, and ultimately lead South Africa towards a more just future. Mandela’s life exemplifies Sartre’s idea that we can “make something out of what we have been made into.”

Another example can be found in the field of rehabilitation. Individuals who have committed crimes are often stigmatized and marginalized. However, through rehabilitation programs and personal effort, they can choose to transform their lives and become productive members of society. This demonstrates the potential for self-creation even in the face of past mistakes.