Kierkegaard, Søren Aabye (1813–1855)

Danish philosopher and theologian, often considered to be the founder of existentialism. He argued that no system of thought could explain the unique experience of the individual. He defended Christianity, suggesting that God cannot be known through reason, but only through a ‘leap of faith’. His chief works are Enten-Eller/Either-Or (1843) and Begrebet Angest/Concept of Dread (1844).

Kierkegaard was born in Copenhagen, where he spent most of his life. The son of a Jewish merchant, he converted to Christianity 1838, although he became hostile to the established church and his beliefs caused much controversy. He stressed pure choice and the absurdity of the Christian faith, and believed that God and exceptional individuals were above moral laws.

Efterskrift/Postscript (1846) summed up much of his earlier writings.