Phenomenology and Existentialism

Abstract

Heraldry and genealogy are cognate disciplines; the former often leads to exciting emblems, the latter sometimes to family embarrassments. An exploration of some central roots of existentialism certainly leads back to phenomenology, and following the line of Sartrean thought brings us quickly to Husserl’s philosophy. Whether the results are more embarrassing than exciting may be decided later. Right now the problem is the nature of the family relationship. I will begin by suggesting that this relationship has as its ground Husserl’s doctrine of the intentionality of consciousness and that Sartre’s existentialism derives from a problematic critique and transformation of that doctrine. I will end by suggesting that Sartre’s inadequacies illuminate Husserl’s achievements.