The problem of intersubjectivity: A comparison of Martin Buber and Alfred Schutz

Abstract

Martin Buber's writings on the l-Thou relationship are generally analyzed and discussed in a theological context. There are, however, broad philosophical problems in the context of which his experience of an I-Thou relationship are of considerable importance. One of these is the problem of intersubjectivity. Simply stated, intersubjectivity refers to one's ability to interact with others in a reciprocal and meaningful fashion. For instance, in conversing with others, my expectation is that others will hear and understand what I say, and respond appropriately. Implicit in my ability to establish such relationships is my ability to recognize those with whom I can enter into intersubjective relationships. For instance, I don't usually try to converse with statues or paintings of people, regardless of their physical similarity to other persons. One philosopher who has discussed intersubjectivity is Alfred Schutz. Schutz, in his phenomenological studies on the social world, has systematically analyzed the nature of social relationships between individuals, and has arrived at an originating point involving intersubjectivity. This point is described by what he calls the Pure We-relationship. Comparison of Schutz's analysis of the Pure Werelationship with Buber's description of his personal experience of intersubjectivity, i.e., the l-Thou relationship, reveals a remarkable convergence. For instance, fundamental to both Schutz and Buber are the notions that intersubjectivity is tied to the lived presence of the self with the other (i.e., sharing of time in the stream of duration), and that the 'content' of this 'experience' is related to the being of the other. These interesting features in the works of Schutz and Buber will be described by showing the similarity between the Pure We and I-Thou relationships. This similarity will be demonstrated by reviewing pertinent aspects of Schutz's inves*This paper was written with the editorial assistance of Helmut Wagner and would not have been possible without his help. The studies on Schutz were carried out with Maurice Natanson when the author was on leave from the Biology department at