Kierkegaard's concept of despair

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The literature on Kierkegaard often paraphrases his ideas, but Michael Theunissen offers a detailed and clear articulation of one of Kierkegaard's central concepts: the theory of despair. Understanding this theory is crucial as it not only sheds light on Kierkegaard's overall thought but also serves as a cornerstone of existentialism, particularly as presented in The Sickness unto Death. Theunissen's work, originally published in German in 1993, is considered the most comprehensive treatment of the subject across languages and successfully bridges the Continental and analytic philosophical traditions. He posits that the essence of despair lies in the self's desire "not to be what it is." By navigating the complex text of The Sickness unto Death, Theunissen clarifies Kierkegaard's notion of the "self," the reasons individuals wish to escape their identities, and the pathways to reconnect with their true selves. He argues that those in despair often deny their authentic selves to evade certain traits, their past, or their life's purpose. In addition to exploring and evaluating Kierkegaard's concept of despair, Theunissen connects these ideas to the thoughts of Heidegger, Sartre, and other twentieth-century philosophers, enriching the discourse on existentialism.