INTERSUBJECTIVITY: Lesson 6 in Introduction to the Philosophy of Human Person with explanation

Summary

This video lesson explores the philosophical concept of intersubjectivity, emphasizing mutual recognition and empathy in human relationships. It differentiates social life from interpersonal life, highlighting the importance of genuine dialogue, equality, and respect between individuals. The lesson discusses obstacles in relationships, such as superficiality, imposition, and poor listening, and contrasts them with authentic engagement, unfolding, and acceptance. Additionally, it delves into the art of loving, explaining that while falling in love is easy, sustaining it and loving fully is challenging. True love involves giving, acceptance, forgiveness, and embracing imperfections, forming the foundation for meaningful connections and personal growth.

Takeaways

• 😀 Intersubjectivity is the mutual recognition of each other as persons, emphasizing empathy and the exchange of thoughts and feelings.
• 😀 Every person is a subject, and intersubjectivity involves recognizing others as subjects too, not as objects.
• 😀 Social life refers to group interactions and shared experiences, while interhuman life focuses on individual interpersonal relationships.
• 😀 Dialogue in intersubjectivity is a deep and genuine connection, not just simple communication or conversation.
• 😀 There are two types of relationships: I–It (objectifying others) and I–You (treating others as equal subjects).
• 😀 Obstacles to genuine dialogue include seeming vs. being, speechifying vs. personal presence, and imposition vs. unfolding.
• 😀 Authentic relationships require being genuine, listening actively, and allowing others to grow independently.
• 😀 The art of loving emphasizes that love is easier to give than to sustain, and finding the right person requires effort beyond initial attraction.
• 😀 Love begins with understanding and addressing loneliness, which can be processed through creativity, self-reflection, or healthy social interaction.
• 😀 Acceptance, empathy, and love are foundational to building meaningful relationships and embracing differences, including those of underprivileged or disabled individuals.
• 😀 Biblical principles of love (1 Corinthians 13:4–8) highlight patience, kindness, humility, forgiveness, and perseverance as essential for lasting relationships.

Q & A

What is intersubjectivity?

Intersubjectivity is a philosophical concept that explores the mutual recognition of each other as persons, emphasizing empathy and the exchange of thoughts and feelings between individuals.

How does Edmund Husserl define intersubjectivity?

Edmund Husserl defines intersubjectivity as the interchange of thoughts and feelings, both conscious and unconscious, between two persons or subjects, facilitated by empathy.

What is the difference between social life and inter-human life?

Social life refers to the life of a group bound by shared experiences, beliefs, and culture, whereas inter-human life focuses on personal, individual interactions and dialogues between people.

What is the significance of dialogue in intersubjectivity?

Dialogue is a deep and genuine relationship between persons where individuals truly acknowledge and respect each other, sharing ideas, beliefs, and emotions beyond mere communication.

What are the two types of relationships discussed in dialogue?

The two types are: I-It relationships, where one treats the other as an object or possession, and I-Thou relationships, where both parties are subjects and engage as equals with mutual respect.

What are some obstacles to effective dialogue?

Obstacles include seeming versus being (pretending versus authenticity), speechifying versus personal making present (superficial listening versus genuine engagement), and imposition versus unfolding (dictating versus supporting individual growth).

How does acceptance play a role in relationships?

Acceptance allows individuals to embrace themselves and others, acknowledge imperfections, and build genuine, respectful relationships, forming the foundation for happiness and peace of mind.

What is the difference between giving and receiving love according to the lecture?

Many people focus on receiving love, but true love involves giving love and care to others, showing empathy, respect, and understanding rather than merely seeking affection for oneself.

What are the stages of love according to Dr. Manwell D. Jr.?

Love begins with the experience of loneliness and can involve escapism (avoiding loneliness), conformity (seeking belonging), and creative/productive activities for self-growth, eventually leading to meaningful and mutual love.

What qualities characterize love according to 1 Corinthians 13:4–8?

Love is patient, kind, not envious or proud, not self-seeking, not easily angered, keeps no record of wrongs, rejoices in truth, protects, trusts, hopes, perseveres, and never fails.

Why is it challenging to open up to someone in a relationship?

People often fear rejection, judgment, or misunderstanding, making it difficult to share personal problems or emotions openly, which can hinder personal connection and trust.

How can intersubjectivity help in accepting differences among individuals?

Intersubjectivity fosters empathy and understanding, allowing individuals to recognize and respect differences, including those related to abilities, experiences, or social status, promoting inclusion and meaningful relationships.