It is hard to tell who the renowned philosophers Albert Camus and Voltaire would vote for in the 2012 presidential election. However, from what we know about each philosopher's ideas and the ideas of the candidates, we can make some guesses.
Camus's philosophy is hard to grasp at first. On the surface, it seems that he is a nihilist, someone who believes life is meaningless, and has no reason for being. However he only conveys this idea through his character Meursalt in The Stranger. His own personal idea is likely different from the relevant human condition he sought to brought to light. This is evident in his essay, "The Myth of Sisyphus," where he indicates that a person who lives in the most miserable conditions can somehow find a bit of happiness. He would probably vote for Obama, as he has served and has been viewed as a shining light, a beacon of hope in the world of darkness. He has given meaning and happiness to many Americans, reflecting Camus' philosophy of finding happiness in darrkness.
Voltaire, on the other hand, has a slightly different philosophy. While it's unclear of Voltaire's position on the specific issue of meaning, he has clear positions on philosophies and issues of the day. He satirizes religious officials and public ministers, he portrays the world in a very dark way, and brings to light important issues that were overlooked at the time he lived- things like greed and slavery. These views mark him as open-minded and nonconformist, and definitely progressive for the day. He would probably write-in Stephen Colbert, a man with very similar views and attitudes today as Voltaire's long ago.
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