Intersubjectivity: Key Concepts (ADM Module, Grade 11)

Martin Buber: I-Thou and I-It

  • I-Thou (Ich-Du): mutual, holistic encounter between equals; recognition of the other as a person; dialogue

  • I-It (Ich-Es): relation where one treats the other as an object or means to an end; useful for needs but not genuine relationship

  • Infinity and universality: I-Thou is real and perceivable but can be hindered by preconceptions or systematization

  • Examples of I-Thou: two lovers, two friends, teacher and student

Intersubjectivity: Definition and Purpose

  • Core idea: mutual recognition of each other as persons; a unique relationship between distinct subjects

  • Inner life (interiority) enables self-giving and receiving others

  • Inter-subjectivity allows closer bonds, shared knowledge, and shared emotions (e.g., grief, joy, love)

  • Developmental role: identity and destiny are shaped by relating with others; self becomes whole through interaction

Dialogue

  • Dialogue: an interaction between persons through speech, expressions, and body language; not limited to words

  • Conditions: openness to others; acceptance of each other’s uniqueness

  • Outcome: authentic relationship when two persons view each other as equals and share themselves

Seeming, Self-Presentation, and Appearance

  • Seeming: presenting oneself in a certain way when dealing with others; role-playing or masks

  • Can be unconscious or intentional (e.g., manipulative behavior like “plastic” or “sipsip”)

  • Impact: may hinder genuine dialogue if it replaces authentic exchange

Self, Other, and Levels of Interaction

  • Level 1: simple awareness that the other exists

  • Level 2: awareness that the self is being seen by others; self-consciousness

  • Role effects: behavior changes across contexts (e.g., church vs. party)

  • Interplay with interiority allows deeper, more genuine relationships when dialogue occurs

Empathy, Availability, and Ethics of Care

  • Empathy: ability to share emotions; awareness that the other is a thinking and feeling person

  • Availability: willingness to be present and to assist others

  • Ethics of Care: moral emphasis on responding to others’ needs; especially supports the vulnerable

Interpersonal Relations and Interiority

  • Interpersonal relations rely on recognizing the other as a person; self and other are interconnected

  • Interiority enables giving oneself to others and receiving them in return

  • Intersubjectivity as a “unique relationship between distinct subjects”

Alienation vs Genuine Interaction

  • Alienation: viewing others as objects or mere means; selfish motives; skepticism about genuine relations

  • Genuine interaction aims for dialogue and mutual recognition of the other’s personhood

Real-Life Applications and Examples

  • Everyday: authentic dialogue in family, friends, and teachers-students

  • Inclusion: appreciation for the talents of persons with disabilities and those from underprivileged sectors

  • Notable examples (illustrative): Helen Keller, Roselle Ambubuyog, Nick Vujicic

Quick Recall: Key Phrases and Distinctions

  • Inter-subjectivity: mutual recognition as persons

  • I-Thou (Ich-Du): authentic encounter

  • I-It (Ich-Es): objectifying encounter

  • Dialogue: open sharing between equals

  • Seeming: surface-level presentation of self

  • Empathy: sharing emotions; acknowledging the other’s personhood

  • Availability: being present/helpful

  • Ethics of Care: moral obligation to care for others

  • Alienation: viewing others as objects; lack of authenticity

Short Practice Prompts (Review)

  • Distinguish I-Thou from I-It with a daily-life example

  • Explain how empathy, availability, and ethics of care contribute to genuine relationships

  • Identify a moment you experienced Seeming and how it affected the interaction

  • Give an example of alienation and a way to counter it through dialogue