Scott Turner 
“Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards”
Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855), a Danish philosopher, theologian, and cultural commentator, played a significant role in shaping existentialism and 20th-century Protestant theology. His philosophical musings centered on individuality, human existence, and Christian beliefs.
“Life can only be understood backwards” pertains to the concept that, upon reflecting on our previous experiences, we can discern patterns, comprehend cause and effect, and make sense of our responses and choices. In other words, hindsight provides greater clarity than foresight. The patterns in our lives become more apparent as we examine our past experiences, decisions, errors, and accomplishments. This can help us grasp why certain events occurred and how we have evolved or transformed as a result.
Conversely, the latter part of the quote, “but it must be lived forwards,” stresses that while we can scrutinize and learn from our history, we cannot dwell in it. We must exist in the present and progress towards the future. This statement serves as a reminder that life is an ongoing journey, and we cannot accurately predict what lies ahead. We must make choices and take actions without complete knowledge of the outcomes. Kierkegaard’s existential philosophy highlights the uncertainty, anxiety, and responsibility that accompany making decisions and living life without absolute certainty.
In summary, Kierkegaard highlights the human life paradox: We make sense of our lives by examining the past, yet we must live and make decisions with a forward-facing perspective, embracing the inherent uncertainty. This quote promotes self-reflection and learning from prior experiences while also urging active engagement in shaping one’s future.
