Is it true that there is a philosophical essence?

Question:

Is it true that there is a philosophical essence?

At least one Top Contributor thinks there is(= socrates has
or had it).
What do you think?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: By definition, the essence of of person is essentially the way we are and how we are preceived by others.

Prior to the existentialists, it was thought that our essence was innate. That is, we are born with our basic characteristics. That is essence precedes existence.

The existentialists made the point that our essence is developed by the way we live each day. That is existence comes before essence. That we have a certain amount of control of our essence.

Personally, I think we have a certain amount of innate tendencies that may effect our essence but the true essence of a person is developed by his or her actions.