Overview
This lecture introduces the concept of inter-subjectivity in philosophy, compares views from three philosophers, and explores its application in real-life social situations.
Objectives
- Define inter-subjectivity.
- Identify similarities and differences in the concepts of inter-subjectivity from Confucius, Martin Buber, and Karol Wojtyła.
- Reflect on personal experiences with inter-subjectivity, especially towards underprivileged and disabled individuals.
Review Activity: True or False
- Human actions are always conceived intellectually. (True)
- Acts of man are deliberately done according to Aristotle. (False)
- Freedom and obligation are distinct philosophical concepts. (True)
- A person is totally responsible for actions with an impaired conscience. (False)
- Choices are made freely if one understands the choice, even if unsure of consequences. (True)
The Concept of "No Man is an Island"
- "No man is an island" means everyone is part of a social reality and relationships shape our experiences.
- The parable of the Good Samaritan teaches compassion and helping others regardless of their background.
Subjectivity, Objectivity, and Intersubjectivity
- Subjectivity refers to personal experiences and perceptions.
- Objectivity is the world experienced by everyone, independent of personal feelings.
- Intersubjectivity is the sharing and relating of subjective states between individuals, combining personal and shared realities.
Philosophers on Intersubjectivity
- Confucius: Focuses on "Ren" (human-heartedness) and practical humanism; teaches not to do to others what you wouldn’t want done to yourself.
- Martin Buber: Introduced I-Thou relationships, emphasizing treating others as subjects with respect, not as objects.
- Karol Wojtyła (John Paul II): Highlights participation, sharing oneself with others, and existing within a community.
Application and Assessment
- Situations like mocking people with disabilities or blaming women for rape call for sensitivity, respect, and addressing social mindsets.
- Intersubjectivity requires kindness, recognizing shared humanity, and responding to societal injustices.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Subjectivity — Individual personal experience and perception of reality.
- Objectivity — The external reality shared by all, independent of personal feelings.
- Intersubjectivity — Mutual sharing and understanding of subjective experiences among individuals.
- Ren — Confucian concept of human-heartedness or benevolence.
- I-Thou Relationship — Buber’s idea of respectful, subject-to-subject human relations.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Reflect on and write about your own experiences helping strangers (Good Samaritan experience).
- Answer the assessment questions and apply philosophical concepts to real social issues.
- Review key terms and philosophers for upcoming discussions or tests.