EMPHASISING AN EMBODIED PHENOMENOLOGICAL SENSE OF THE SELF AND THE SOCIAL IN EDUCATION

ABSTRACT

This paper reviews the theoretical underpinnings of phenomenology-related writings which support claims that the self and the social (the ‘I’ and the ‘We’) can plausibly be integrated and nurtured together in education. We begin by analysing contemporary theorising which suggests that reviewing foundational phenomenologists, particularly Husserl and Merleau-Ponty, can lead to greater clarity in understanding and appreciating the intersubjective sense of the self and the social. This perspective is aided by reviewing the reciprocal connections which take place during human action, situational structuring, and reality construction. Building on this review we consider some of the ontological possibilities for a self and social phenomenology to become more central to educational aims. In doing so, we raise rather than unpack in exhaustive detail associated methodological matters in light of their educational implications. If successfully enacted, we perceive considerable benefits for students in being able to directly attend to the properties of their experiences, especially in contexts where new habits are formed and where opportunities arise for self and shared experiences to be reviewed and reflected on by all involved.

Keywords:

• phenomenology
• Merleau-Ponty
• embodiment
• intersubjectivity
• education

6. Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Notes

1 This paper aims to open up a debate on a new and emerging research agenda in an area of phenomenological importance relevant to education. Other research papers are planned which progress these intentions e.g. Stolz, S.A & Thorburn, M. (in press) Phenomenology, embodiment, and education: first-person methodologies of embodied subjectivity. In S.A. Stolz (Ed). The Body, Embodiment, and Education: An Interdisciplinary Approach (Manuscript in preparation).