Albert Camus and Ernest Becker were both concerned with the effects of existential paradox (the paradox of the absurd) on human behavior and how the ability to accept this paradox may alleviate much individual, societal, and even planetary suffering. Their respective works focus on different aspects of existential paradox and I propose a comparison of their main themes leads to a deeper and more robust understanding of existential paradox and its effects. Thus, this article is an exploration of how a comparison of Camus and Becker’s work may enrich our understanding of existential paradox, its effects on human behavior, and provide a way to live with it. I conclude from this comparison that the creation of absurd works of art may be integral for promoting the ability to live in existential paradox without appeal.
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