Conclusion: Phenomenological Intentionality and Looking-Glass Sociality

Abstract

This conclusion explains the connectedness of various provinces of meaning with each other and the way in which the non-social features of various provinces affect the social relationships within those provinces. While for Schutz phenomenology provides a theoretical framework (eidetic intuition, intentionality, and fulfilment) that pragmatism cannot, he develops a holistic understanding of philosophical anthropology that includes dimensions that pragmatism might have emphasized—unplanned spontaneity, bodily movement, affect, and phantasy—in addition to rationality and theorizing. Phenomenological intentionality underpins the notion of resilience developed in this book insofar as imposed relevances do not causally determine our responses. Rather we bestow meaning on these relevances by acting toward them, and endowing them with actional significance. Similarly, Schutz develops a dynamic spontaneous understanding of sociality, epitomized by the concept of the “looking-glass,” an interpersonal entwinement contrasting with the Sartrean idea that one person acting alone objectifies another who also acting alone objectifies the first in response. Resilience and responsiveness reflect the basic themes of Schutz’s phenomenology: consciousness/intentionality and social relationships.