PHENOMENOLOGICAL PHILOSOPHY Meaning and
Definition
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Phenomenological philosophy is a philosophical approach that focuses on the study of subjective human experiences and conscious phenomena. It emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the predominant philosophical traditions of rationalism and empiricism. Developed notably by Edmund Husserl and later expanded upon by philosophers such as Martin Heidegger and Maurice Merleau-Ponty, phenomenology seeks to understand the nature of phenomena as they are directly experienced by individual consciousness.
At its core, phenomenological philosophy rejects the idea that knowledge can be solely derived from objective observations or logical reasoning, instead emphasizing the significance of subjective human experiences and perspectives. It posits that the study of phenomena should involve a suspension of preconceived beliefs and biases, allowing for a direct examination of the lived experience.
Phenomenologists aim to describe, analyze, and interpret the structures of consciousness and the processes by which we perceive, interpret, and understand the world. They explore various dimensions of human experience, such as perception, embodiment, temporality, intersubjectivity, and intentionality. By closely examining these phenomena, phenomenological philosophy seeks to reveal the underlying meanings and essences of human existence, as well as the fundamental ways in which we interact with and interpret the world around us.
Overall, phenomenological philosophy seeks to provide a rigorous and systematic approach to understanding human consciousness and experience, offering insights into the nature of reality, knowledge, and our place within it. It has influenced various disciplines including psychology, sociology, anthropology, and even arts and literature.
Etymology of PHENOMENOLOGICAL PHILOSOPHY
The word "phenomenological philosophy" can be broken down into two parts: "phenomenological" and "philosophy".
1. Phenomenological: The term "phenomenological" comes from the Greek words "phainómenon" which means "that which appears" or "that which is shown" and "logos" which means "study" or "knowledge". Together, "phenomenon" refers to something that is observable or apprehensible through the senses, or in philosophical terms, the way things appear or are experienced.
2. Philosophy: The word "philosophy" originates from the Greek term "philosophia", which combines "philos" meaning "love" and "sophia" meaning "wisdom" or "knowledge". Therefore, philosophy can be understood as the love or pursuit of wisdom and knowledge.
