Subjects, Worlds and Ethics: A Phenomenology of Responsibility

The most well-known phenomenologist who has written extensively on the concept of responsibility is undoubtedly Emmanuel Levinas. He posits ethics and responsibility at the heart of phenomenology, claiming that they are the main characteristics of human existence. His far-reaching views on responsibility also extend beyond phenomenology. Levinas' approach is further radicalized by Jacques Derrida, who emphasizes the aporias that render responsibility infinite, even impossible, yet simultaneously inescapable. This essay critiques both conceptualizations and proposes an alternative phenomenology of responsibility found in the work of Jan Patočka. His ideas on responsibility are more realistic, more practical, and can be better substantiated phenomenologically.