Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

• Mahmoud Dorosti ¹
• Mohaddaseh Rezaei ²

¹ shahed University

² Education

Abstract

Introduction

Karl Jaspers (1883-1969), an existentialist philosopher, was influenced by Kierkegaard and Nietzsche. The focus of his thought was modern man. Their questions about the human self, including "What is the meaning of being human?" led Jaspers to think about the life of "modern man" and prompted him to question the function of philosophy. He was worried and anxious about the dangerous and serious situation of human harmony, which was caused by the emergence and spread of meaninglessness. His main concern was that humans, in the face of modern and complex civilization, would not be reduced and diminished by turning away from humanity and its values. Since the lack and decline of humanity leads to the devaluation of oneself and fundamental values, Jaspers' thought was focused on how man can maintain his uniqueness and authenticity. This article explores the concept of existential communication in Jaspers' thought, focusing on its role in preserving individuality while facilitating meaningful human connections. It delves into the duality between "communication in being" and "existential communication", emphasizing the transformative nature of the latter. Additionally, it examines the pivotal role of solitude in the process of self-awareness and the significance of "loving struggle" in authentic dialogue. The discussion further extends to Jaspers' ethical reflections, which underscore the concreteness of individual existence as opposed to abstract moral principles. By integrating values such as freedom, love, and choice in human life, Jaspers offers a compelling perspective on how existential communication nurtures both self and solidarity. Therefore, this research seeks to illuminate the relevance of Jaspers' ideas in contemporary philosophical and ethical discourses, particularly in the context of human relationships and personal growth.

Methodology

This research examines the concept of existential communication in the thought of Karl Jaspers, its importance in human life, and its role in self-awareness and existential transcendence, using the method of conceptual analysis of the type of interpretation and conceptual development.

Discussion

According to Jaspers, communication is a way of realizing oneself in the light of another existence. This existential communication helps Jaspers protect selfhood against abstraction. In his view, no universal validity can be claimed for selfhood. Truth in existential communication is "the truth of existence, not for universal validity". In his work, Philosophy Volume II, Jaspers provides the context for this clarification of the concept of communication. His existential communication rejects the various approaches that have been previously put forward. Jaspers' explanation of existential communication is as follows:
In the face of the desire for self-sufficiency, in the face of contentment with mere awareness of consciousness in general, in the face of individual will, in the face of a yearning for a comprehensive life, in the face of surrender to the patterns of habitual life of the existing tradition – in the face of all these, we want our philosophizing, free, authentic understanding and communication of being to clarify, an understanding that enables us to confront the constant threat of selfishness or universality [as] validity.
In the past, the human self was considered a "self-sufficient" and "comprehensive" reality, and its awareness was considered a public awareness. Jaspers intended to protect human selfhood, and for this reason, his explanation of the possible existence in communication rejects any universalization of human individuality and consciousness.
According to Jaspers, communication is ultimately a matter of authentic selfhood. He distinguishes between "communication in existence" and "existential communication". Communication in "communication in existence" can be examined and proven. In this type of communication, the question of the existence of the individual is not raised. Man remains unaware of his consciousness; he lives more of a collective life than being a particular human being. His selfhood becomes one with the selfhood of others.
In this objective form of communication, the spirit is regarded as a "self" or "I", and consciousness is seen as a universal and common consciousness. The individual is a rational being, and his communication is centered on the state, family, and society. The subject of his conversation with everyone is the same. Jaspers calls this type of communication "pseudo-communication". Although this communication is not inherently existential, it can open a path towards existential communication. The explanation of "existential communication" begins only after awareness of the shortcomings and inadequacies of "objective communication". For this reason, Jaspers defines "existential communication" as a way in which the true and authentic "self" of an individual is revealed and becomes apparent.
Existential communication takes place between two selves. In this communication, which is entirely historical and cannot be externally discerned, the certainty of selfhood is inherent. This is the only way in which one self, for another self, in the process of mutual creation, becomes possible. Only in the context of freedom as a possibility can one understand what is meant by this proposition: I cannot be my own free self unless the other is also free and has the will to be himself - and I am with him. The necessity of existential communication arises merely from freedom.

Conclusion

Karl Jaspers' philosophy of existential communication provides a valuable framework for understanding the complex interplay between individuality and relatedness. By distinguishing between pseudo-communication and existential communication, Jaspers highlights the transformative potential of authentic dialogue in fostering self-awareness and mutual understanding. His emphasis on solitude as a prerequisite for meaningful interaction challenges modern tendencies towards superficial connection, while the concept of "loving struggle" underscores the relational nature of selfhood.
Jaspers' ethical reflections further emphasize the importance of grounding moral actions in the concreteness of individual existence, rather than abstract universality. By embracing values such as freedom, love, and choice, existential communication emerges as a vital pathway towards authentic living. In an era where the complexities of human identity and connection remain a significant and urgent matter, Jaspers' insights continue to resonate, offering timeless guidance for personal and interpersonal growth.

Keywords

• Karl Jaspers
• Existential Communication
• Authentic Selfhood
• Freedom
• Loving Struggle

Main Subjects

• philosophy