Core Viewpoint - The ongoing relevance of the "Sartre-Camus dispute" highlights the enduring impact of Albert Camus's works, particularly "The Outsider" and "The Plague," which continue to resonate with readers today [1][3] Group 1: Historical Context - Camus wrote "The Rebel" during a time of societal division and political turmoil, reflecting on the aftermath of World War II and the rise of violence justified under various ideological banners [1][3] - The writing of "The Rebel" was influenced by Camus's observations of post-war France, where political purges and a toxic atmosphere of self-justification prevailed [1][3] Group 2: Philosophical Insights - Camus posits that regardless of the justification—be it revolutionary or counter-revolutionary—violence is often legitimized, and the focus should be on halting the violence itself rather than debating moral correctness [3][4] - The essence of Camus's philosophy is encapsulated in the idea that "I rebel, therefore we exist," emphasizing the necessity of rebellion against absurdity and the indifference of the universe [6][7] Group 3: Literary Contributions - "The Rebel" serves as a theoretical elevation of Camus's anti-violence stance, where he critiques the historical misuse of philosophical ideas, particularly those of Nietzsche, in justifying violence [6][7] - Camus's literary style in "The Rebel" is marked by a more argumentative tone compared to his previous works, reflecting the contentious nature of the subject matter [9][10] Group 4: Personal and Political Implications - The publication of "The Rebel" positioned Camus in opposition to Sartre, leading to a significant ideological divide among French intellectuals during the 1945-1952 period [8][10] - Despite the risks associated with his stance, Camus remained committed to his principles, advocating for a moral opposition to political violence, which ultimately led to his isolation in a politically charged environment [10][12]