Marcel’s Philosophy of Man

 

Gabriel Marcel explores the meaning of being human by focusing on two key ideas: being in a situation and intersubjectivity. He argues that human existence is not abstract but deeply rooted in the world and in relationships with others.

Being in a Situation: Human Existence is Contextual

To be human means to exist within a specific situation—we are always in a particular place, at a particular time, surrounded by objects and people. Unlike a detached mind floating in space, we experience life through our environment and circumstances.

For example, waking up in the morning, feeling the warmth of a blanket, and hearing birds outside are not separate experiences but part of our lived reality. Marcel emphasizes that our connection to the world happens through our bodies. However, he highlights a philosophical mystery: What is the relationship between the self and the body?

On one hand, if we say, "I have a body," it implies that the body is a separate object, like a possession. On the other hand, if we say, "I am my body," it reduces us to mere physical matter. Marcel argues that neither statement fully captures our lived experience. Our bodies are both intimately part of us and, at times, feel separate.

For instance, when we trip on a stone, we do not consciously command our bodies to stumble—it just happens. This suggests that our body is not entirely under our control. Yet, when we feel exhausted, we often say, "My body is tired," as if referring to something distinct from ourselves. This paradox highlights the unique and mysterious connection between the self and the body.

Intersubjectivity: How We Relate to Others

Marcel believes that human beings are not only connected to the physical world but also to each other. He calls this intersubjectivity, which refers to the deep, personal ways we relate to others. However, he distinguishes between two modes of relating: treating others as objects (the “It” relationship) and treating others as persons (the “Thou” relationship).

Treating Others as Objects ("It" Relationship)

Often, people are seen as mere functions rather than as full human beings. For example, when we buy a ticket from a bus conductor, we rarely think about his personal life or feelings—we see him only in terms of his role. This reduces people to objects, treating them as means to an end rather than as individuals with depth and dignity. Marcel argues that modern society encourages this attitude, leading to a "broken world" where human relationships become impersonal and transactional.

Treating Others as Persons ("Thou" Relationship)

In contrast, a "Thou" relationship occurs when we truly recognize and connect with another person. Instead of seeing them as a detached "he" or "she," we engage with them deeply, acknowledging their uniqueness and inner life.

The Importance of True Human Relationships

For Marcel, the highest form of human existence is achieved through genuine relationships. True communion with others allows us to experience being in a deeper way.

Consider the difference between a mother holding her child with love and a boss exploiting employees purely for profit. The first example represents authentic intersubjectivity, where the relationship is built on care and recognition of the other as a person. The second example illustrates objectification, where people are reduced to mere functions.

Link for Video: https://youtu.be/6C36Ce_ohiY

Link for PPT: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WYNKCkO8OmcBBBaEIGhmMZ3pAlads9Wp/view?usp=sharing

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