ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Jean-Paul Sartre and Rabindranath Tagore on Humanism: A Comparative Discussion

Humanism is an ethical philosophy that places the human being at the center of moral reflection, highlighting the importance of human autonomy, inherent worth and the capacity for self-determination.This essay offers a comparative exploration of the humanistic thought of Jean-Paul Sartre and Rabindranath Tagore in light of their respective philosophical insights. Sartre’s existentialist humanism is fundamentally grounded in a atheistic conception of humanity, foregrounding individual freedom, responsibility and the ideal of self-creation. Existentialism is a philosophical doctrine that places primary emphasis on the individual self, free will and personal responsibility. This philosophy regards human consciousness as an autonomous and self-determining force that plays an active role in shaping its interpretation and application. According to Sartre, Existence precedes essence; that is, human beings first exist and subsequently define their essence through conscious choice and action. Consequently, the individual bears complete responsibility for their own being and each act of choice implicitly projects a model for all humankind. In this sense, human freedom is inseparable from an inescapable ethical accountability. In contrast, Tagore’s humanism embodies a synthesis of spirituality and a profound sense of harmony. He affirms the infinite potential of the human being and envisions the unfolding of creativity as an expression of this inner plenitude. In Tagore’s thought, the human person is not an isolated entity but an integral part of nature, society and the universal consciousness. Love, cooperation and empathy towards others constitute essential dimensions of his humanism, which ultimately aspires toward an ideal of universal humanity grounded in unity and spiritual communion. While Sartre’s intellectual consciousness freedom is inseparably linked with responsibility- a position that finds clear articulation in the existential humanism of Sartre. Rabindranath Tagore’s humanism, by contrast , foregrounds the ideals of unity, spiritual potentiality and universal love.