existentialism(n = noun.cognition) existential philosophy, existentialist philosophy - (philosophy) a 20th-century philosophical movement chiefly in Europe; assumes that people are entirely free and thus responsible for what they make of themselves;
is a kind of philosophical doctrine, philosophical theory
Derived form noun existentialist₁

   a philosophical theory or attitude having various interpretations, generally emphasising the existence of the individual as a unique agent with free will and responsibility for his or her own acts, though living in a universe devoid of any certain knowledge of right and wrong; from one's plight as a free agent with uncertain guidelines may arise feelings of anguish. Existentialism is concerned more with concrete existence rather than abstract theories of essences; is contrasted with rationalism and empiricism; and is associated with Kierkegaard, Heidegger and Sartre, as well as others. [PJC]

existentialism, n. a philosophical theory emphasizing the existence of the individual person as a free and responsible agent determining his or her own development.

Derivative:
existentialist n.

Etymology:
G Existentialismus (as EXISTENTIAL)