Understanding the Differences Between Husserl's and Heidegger's Concepts of Intersubjectivity
Both Edmund Husserl and Martin Heidegger contribute significantly to the philosophical understanding of intersubjectivity. While their approaches are rooted in different traditions and emphasize different aspects of human interaction, both philosophers provide foundational insights into how we understand and share experiences as social beings.
Phenomenological Basis of Husserl's Intersubjectivity
Phenomenological Basis: Husserl's concept of intersubjectivity is integrally linked to his phenomenological method. Heargues that consciousness is not isolated but inherently involves a relationship with other consciousnesses. This relationship is what Husserl calls intersubjectivity.
In his Phenomenology, Husserl emphasizes the lifeworld as the common ground where subjects interact and share meanings. The lifeworld is the lived world that is shared by all members of a community, and it serves as the foundation for a collective understanding of the world.
The Constitution of Meaning and Shared Reality
Constitution of Meaning: For Husserl, intersubjectivity is crucial for the constitution of meaning. He argues that meaning arises not from individual consciousnesses in isolation but through the interactions and dialogues that exist amongst individuals. Through such interactions, a shared meaning emerges, which is fundamental to social and cultural understanding.
Empathy (Einfühlung): Husserl places great importance on empathy as a means of understanding the experiences of others. Empathy allows one to project their own emotions and thoughts into the experiences of others, thus enabling a shared reality. This empathetic connection is vital for establishing a sense of shared understanding and meaning within the lifeworld.
Heidegger's Intersubjectivity: Being and Time and Dasein
Being and Time: Martin Heidegger's exploration of intersubjectivity takes place in the context of his existential and ontological inquiries, notably in his magnum opus, Being and Time. Heidegger's philosophical journey focuses on the existence of Dasein, which he defines as 'being-there' or 'being-with-others'. This concept underscores the relational nature of human existence.
Existential Nature of Being-With-Others: In Heidegger's philosophy, intersubjectivity is fundamentally tied to the relational aspects of Dasein. The way Dasein exists is inseparable from the existence of other Dasein. The concept of being-there and being-with-others emphasizes the interdependence and interconnectedness of individuals within a shared world.
Authenticity and Inauthenticity
Authenticity and Inauthenticity: Heidegger further explores the concept of authenticity and inauthenticity in his discussions of intersubjectivity. Heidegger distinguishes between two modes of existence—authentic and inauthentic. Inauthenticity arises when individuals conform to the expectations and norms of others, leading to a disconnection from their true selves.
Worldhood (Weltheit): For Heidegger, intersubjectivity is also linked to the concept of worldhood, which refers to the shared world and the common worldview. The notion of world is pivotal in Heidegger's philosophy, as it encompasses the shared reality that individuals inhabit together.
Summary
Husserl's concept of intersubjectivity revolves around the constitution of meaning through shared experiences and empathy, emphasizing the role of the lifeworld in intersubjectivity. On the other hand, Heidegger emphasizes the existential nature of being-with-others, highlighting the relational aspects of Dasein and the importance of authenticity in social interactions. Both philosophers contribute significantly to our understanding of intersubjectivity, but they do so from different philosophical frameworks and with different implications for how we understand human relationships and social reality.
By delving into these different approaches, we gain a more nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in human intersubjectivity. This knowledge is essential for anyone interested in philosophy, social sciences, and the study of human interaction.