A Phenomenology of Attention and the Unfamiliar: Encounters with the Unknown

This book explores the enigmatic role of attention as a faculty that enables change within subjective and intersubjective experience, building on the discussion in the phenomenological tradition. It aims to reveal the processes in which subjects are unmade and remade and to highlight how we can change our relation to an empirical world that nevertheless has unity and constancy in our perception.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 11 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Building upon the rich and ongoing exploration of attention within the phenomenological tradition,spanning the works of Aron Gurwitsch and Merleau-Ponty to Bernhard Waldenfels,this comprehensive book delves into the enigmatic nature of attention as a faculty that empowers transformative change within both subjective and intersubjective realms. The primary objective of this book is to unveil the intricate processes through which subjects are deconstructed and reconstructed,while also emphasizing the capacity we possess to alter our relationship with an empirical world that exudes unity and constancy in our perception.

The study of attention within the phenomenological tradition has been a fertile ground for exploration,with scholars seeking to understand the intricate ways in which our consciousness interacts with the world around us. From the early works of Aron Gurwitsch and Merleau-Ponty to the later contributions of Bernhard Waldenfels,the focus on attention has shed light on the subjective and intersubjective experiences that shape our understanding of the world.

In this book,we will delve deeper into the enigmatic role of attention as a faculty that enables change within subjective and intersubjective experience. We will explore the processes through which subjects are unmade and remade,and examine how we can alter our relationship to an empirical world that nevertheless possesses unity and constancy in our perception.

One of the key insights of phenomenological analysis is that attention is not a passive process,but rather an active and dynamic faculty that shapes our perception and interpretation of the world. Attention is not just a tool for gathering information,but also a means by which we can transform our experience of the world. By paying attention to certain aspects of our experience,we can amplify or diminish their significance,and thus alter our understanding of the world.

For example,when we attend to the sensory qualities of an object,we can develop a more nuanced and complex understanding of it. We may notice the texture,color,and shape of an object,and these sensory experiences can shape our perception of its meaning and value. By attending to the sensory qualities of an object,we can also develop a deeper sense of empathy and connection with it,which can lead to more meaningful interactions with others.

Similarly,attention can also shape our intersubjective experiences. When we attend to the perspectives and experiences of others,we can develop a greater understanding of their world and their experiences. This can lead to more compassionate and empathetic relationships,and can help us to navigate complex social situations more effectively.

However,attention is not without its challenges. One of the most significant challenges is the tendency for our attention to be drawn to the most salient or exciting aspects of our experience,while ignoring the more subtle or mundane aspects. This can lead to a narrow and biased understanding of the world,and can prevent us from fully engaging with the complexity and richness of our experience.

To overcome this challenge,we need to develop a greater awareness of our attentional patterns and biases. We can do this by practicing mindfulness and meditation,which can help us to become more present and aware of our thoughts and emotions. By developing a greater awareness of our attentional patterns,we can become more intentional and selective in our attention,and can thus develop a more comprehensive and balanced understanding of the world.

Another challenge that arises from the study of attention is the distinction between subjective and objective attention. While subjective attention is focused on our internal experiences and thoughts,objective attention is focused on the external world and its objects. This distinction can be difficult to navigate,as it can lead to a split between our internal and external experiences.

To overcome this challenge,we need to develop a more integrated and holistic understanding of attention. We can do this by recognizing the interdependence of our internal and external experiences,and by developing a sense of interconnectedness and unity with the world around us. By developing a more integrated and holistic understanding of attention,we can become more attuned to the subtle and nuanced aspects of our experience,and can thus develop a more profound and meaningful understanding of the world.

In conclusion,the study of attention within the phenomenological tradition has been a rich and rewarding field of exploration. By delving into the enigmatic nature of attention as a faculty that enables change within subjective and intersubjective experience,we can develop a greater understanding of the processes through which subjects are deconstructed and reconstructed,and can thus alter our relationship to an empirical world that nevertheless possesses unity and constancy in our perception. Through the practice of mindfulness and meditation,and by developing a greater awareness of our attentional patterns and biases,we can overcome the challenges that arise from the study of attention and develop a more comprehensive and balanced understanding of the world.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031141164
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022