Intersubjectivity: Concepts and Figures (Buber and Wojtyła)

Intersubjectivity: Person-to-Person Existence

  • Intersubjectivity refers to the lived, mutual existence between persons; it frames human life as fundamentally relational, not merely individual or solitary.
  • Emphasizes person-to-person existence rather than treating others as objects or mere instruments.

Lesson Objectives

  • Realize that intersubjectivity requires accepting differences and not imposing one’s own view on others.
  • Understand that authentic dialogue means accepting others even if they are different from oneself.
  • Appreciate the talents of persons with disabilities and those from underprivileged sectors of society and recognize their contributions to society.

Core Message: Understanding and Respect for Differences

  • Intersubjectivity requires understanding, accepting, and respecting differences without imposing one’s own view on others.
  • The lesson focuses on building strength and resilience despite limitations and differences.
  • Each person is unique and talented.
  • When talents are cultivated, a person gains confidence and self-respect.
  • As members of society, we are called to adapt and help others develop themselves in addition to developing our own selves.

Martin Buber: I-Thou vs I-It

  • Martin Buber: a Jewish existentialist philosopher born in Vienna.
  • I and Thou (I-Thou) framework conceptualizes the human person as a whole, with concrete existence, relatedness to the world.
  • I-Thou relationship treats the human person as a subject, a being distinct from things.
  • The human person achieves wholeness not primarily through self-reflection alone, but through meaningful relation with another self.
  • The I-Thou mode creates a world of mutual relation and experience, i.e., dialogue.
  • In authentic dialogue, we listen to one another and engage as equals.

I-It Relationship

  • I-It relationship describes the dynamic of person-to-thing: subject to object, where the other is experienced as an instrument.
  • It is a monologue-like relationship lacking directedness and mutuality.
  • The other person is not heard or engaged as a fellow subject.

Pope John Paul II (Karol Wojtyła): The Human Person in Action

  • Wojtyła was born in Wadowice, Poland.
  • He was elected to the papacy on October 16, 1978, and was the 264th pope.
    • The papal designation is 264th264^{th} pope.
    • The papacy election date is 1616 October 19781978.
  • Core claim: the human person exists and acts; humans are beings with conscious acting, will, and self-determination.
  • Action reveals the nature of the human agent: identity, character, and personality are shown through behavior, actions, and choices.
  • Famous maxim: "We are what we do".
  • Concept of Participation: participation expresses the essence of the human person; through participation, a person can fulfill oneself.
  • The human person is oriented toward relationship and sharing in communal life for the common good.

Synthesis: Connections and Implications

  • Relationship to others is foundational to being human: wholeness and self-understanding arise in interaction (Buber) and active engagement with others (Wojtyła).
  • Ethical implications: cultivate acceptance of differences, resist objectifying others, and practice dialogue to foster inclusion.
  • Practical implications: recognize and value the contributions of people with disabilities and those from underprivileged sectors; promote environments where participation, mutual aid, and communal life support personal and social flourishing.
  • Foundational idea: true development involves both self-growth and helping others develop; society thrives on mutual adaptation and shared humanity.
  • Real-world relevance: supports inclusive practices, respectful dialogue, and collaborative communities that honor the dignity and talents of every person.