Psychology Lesson 6: Intersubjectivity

Study Notes

Lesson 6: Intersubjectivity

Intersubjectivity defines human interactions and relationships.
It requires accepting differences and avoiding imposition.
It values the contributions of people with disabilities and those from underprivileged sectors.
Authentic dialogue involves acceptance of others, regardless of differences.
Meaningful interactions with each other are essential for humans.
Our capacity for self-awareness and transcendence is crucial to meaningful engagement with others.
Interpersonal relations arise when the self recognizes the other, including everything outside the self.
Intersubjectivity is a unique relationship between distinct subjects, characterized by intimate and personal connections with others, despite differences.
The interaction between the self and the other involve mutual recognition.
A level of self-other interaction exists, including awareness of the existence of the other and the self as being seen by others.
Another defining characteristic is self-consciousness.
The unique phenomenon of the human gaze sets apart human interactions from other species.
"Seeming" is how individuals present themselves to others.
Most human interactions aren't based on deception, but focus on dignity and goodness, which benefits others.
Dialogue is a deeper and more genuine interaction, happening through words, expressions, and body language.
It occurs when individuals are open to each other, sharing themselves and acknowledging differences.
Conversations with casual acquaintances differ from close relationships.
A true dialogue involves "opening up" to each other, sharing, and recognizing unique qualities.

Intersubjectivity that defines interactions with others

Empathy - sharing emotions, crucial part of intersubjectivity.
Empathy enables experiencing the emotions of others. (e.g., happiness, anger, sadness)
Sympathy is feeling with others, while empathy is feeling in the experience of another.
Availability - the person's willingness to be present and available to another person.
Considering the ethics of care emphasizes moral aspects of relationships, encouraging individuals to support one another.
It is believed that people have a moral obligation to help each other.
Disagreement on intersubjectivity or differences can exist.
Individuals who view others negatively or consider actions based on selfishness illustrate alienation.

Examples of people who have risen above limitations

Hellen Keller — author, political activist, and the first deaf-blind person to earn a bachelor's degree.
Anne Sullivan, Helen Keller's teacher, herself visually impaired.
Nick Vujicic, an Australian evangelist and motivational speaker born without limbs.
Roselle Ambubuyog, the first visually impaired Filipino to graduate summa cum laude.
These examples demonstrate how philosophy can help in evaluating and strengthening relationships based on respect for differences and a shared humanity.