Martin Buber was a 20th century philosopher and theologian who is best known for his work on interpersonal relationships and dialogical philosophy. In Buber’s philosophy, subjectivity is a central concept, and it is closely linked to his ideas about the nature of human existence and the possibility of genuine human interaction.
Buber’s concept of subjectivity is rooted in his understanding of the human person as a unique and dynamic being. For Buber, the individual is not a static entity with fixed characteristics or traits, but rather a complex and constantly evolving entity that is shaped by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, culture, and personal experience. In other words, the individual is a subject who is always in the process of becoming, rather than an object that can be studied or analyzed from a fixed perspective.
According to Buber, this dynamic and evolving nature of the individual means that subjectivity is always in flux. Subjectivity is not a fixed or static quality, but rather a constantly changing and evolving aspect of human existence. Buber argues that this constant evolution of subjectivity is a result of the ongoing interplay between the individual and the world around them. The individual is shaped by their experiences and interactions with others, as well as by the cultural and social contexts in which they live.
Buber’s concept of subjectivity also emphasizes the importance of relationships and interpersonal interactions in shaping and defining the self. For Buber, human existence is fundamentally relational, and the self is not a solitary or isolated entity, but rather emerges in the context of dialogical relationships with others. Buber emphasizes the importance of genuine, authentic, and reciprocal relationships in which individuals are fully present to each other and engage in mutual recognition and respect.
According to Buber, these dialogical relationships are characterized by a sense of “I-Thou” rather than “I-It” relationships. In an “I-Thou” relationship, individuals are fully present to each other as unique and dynamic subjects, and they engage in genuine dialogue and mutual recognition. In contrast, an “I-It” relationship is characterized by objectification and manipulation, in which one person treats another as a mere object to be used or manipulated for their own purposes.
Buber’s concept of subjectivity is closely linked to his ideas about the nature of human existence and the possibility of genuine human interaction. He argues that the individual is always in the process of becoming, and that this process is shaped by the ongoing interplay between the self and the world around them. Buber also emphasizes the importance of genuine and reciprocal relationships in which individuals are fully present to each other and engage in mutual recognition and respect.
Overall, Buber’s concept of subjectivity is a complex and dynamic one that reflects his broader philosophical ideas about the nature of human existence and the importance of interpersonal relationships. Buber’s emphasis on the importance of genuine and reciprocal relationships and his rejection of objectification and manipulation continue to be influential in contemporary philosophy and social thought.