Intersubjectivity (Introduction to the Philosophy of the Human Person)

Summary

The video explores intersubjectivity, a concept by Edmund Husserl, emphasizing genuine human connection beyond utility. It discusses three levels: empathy, availability, and ethics of care. Philosopher Martin Buber introduces 'I-Thou' for authentic relationships and 'I-It' for objectifying ones, highlighting the importance of dialogue over monologue for meaningful connections.

Takeaways

• 🤔 Intersubjectivity is the exchange of thoughts and feelings between individuals, facilitated by empathy.
• 🧠 The concept of intersubjectivity was coined by Edmund Husserl, emphasizing the interaction between conscious beings.
• 💡 It involves treating others as subjects, not objects, which is a fundamental aspect of human relationships.
• 🌟 There are three levels of intersubjectivity: empathy, availability, and ethics of care.
• 👟 Empathy allows individuals to share emotions and understand others' perspectives.
• 🤝 Availability is about being present and ready to help others.
• 🌱 Ethics of care is the moral obligation to respond to others' needs, especially the vulnerable.
• 🎭 Seemingly is the act of presenting oneself in a way that is not genuine to impress others.
• 🗣️ Dialogue is a deeper, more authentic form of interaction where individuals treat each other as equals.
• 📚 Martin Buber described two types of relationships: the I-It, which is objectifying, and the I-Thou, which is genuine and without objectification.
• 🔍 The I-It relationship leads to alienation, while the I-Thou relationship fosters a sense of genuine connection and humanity.

Q & A

What does intersubjectivity refer to in philosophy?

Intersubjectivity refers to the interchange of thoughts and feelings, both conscious and unconscious, between two subjects or persons. It is a human characteristic that allows individuals to engage in intimate and personal relationships with others.

Who coined the term 'intersubjectivity' and what does it mean?

The term 'intersubjectivity' was coined by the Austrian-German philosopher Edmund Husserl. It refers to the shared understanding and mutual recognition between individuals, made possible through empathy and human connection.

What are the three levels of intersubjectivity?

The three levels of intersubjectivity are: 1) Empathy, which is the ability to share the emotions of others, 2) Availability, which is the willingness to be present and at the disposal of others, and 3) Ethics of care, a moral obligation to respond to the needs of others, particularly the vulnerable.

How does Martin Buber differentiate between the 'I-It' and 'I-Thou' relationships?

Martin Buber describes the 'I-It' relationship as one where individuals treat others as objects to be used, leading to alienation and exploitation. In contrast, the 'I-Thou' relationship involves a genuine encounter where individuals see each other as equals and distinct persons, resulting in an authentic dialogue.

What is meant by 'seeming' in human interactions?

'Seeming' refers to the tendency of individuals to present a certain image of themselves depending on who they are interacting with. This often involves pretending or taking on roles to appear more desirable, which can lead to inauthentic relationships.

What is the significance of empathy in intersubjectivity?

Empathy is significant in intersubjectivity because it allows individuals to understand and share the emotions of others. This awareness fosters genuine human connection by recognizing the feelings and personhood of the other.

How does alienation arise in the 'I-It' relationship?

Alienation arises in the 'I-It' relationship when individuals are treated as objects rather than persons. This leads to inauthentic, deceptive, and exploitative relationships, causing a loss of dignity and humanity.

What is the moral dimension of intersubjectivity, according to the ethics of care?

The ethics of care emphasizes that individuals have a moral obligation to respond to the needs of others, especially the vulnerable. It underlines the importance of care and responsibility in human interactions.

What does Buber mean by the 'I-Thou' relationship?

The 'I-Thou' relationship, according to Buber, is a genuine interaction where individuals engage with each other as distinct persons. It is a dialogue characterized by mutual respect and understanding, free from objectification.

How does 'dialogue' differ from 'monologue' in Buber's philosophy?

In Buber's philosophy, a 'dialogue' is an authentic exchange between two individuals who recognize each other's personhood, while a 'monologue' occurs when one treats the other as an object, focusing solely on their own perspective and interests.