Intersubjectivity in Mahāyāna-Buddhism and Relational Psychoanalysis

Abstract

Buddhism has become one of the main dialog partners for different psychotherapeutic approaches within the last years. Seen as a psychological system, it can offer structural elements which are compatible with psychotherapeutic theory and practice. A main concept in Mahāyāna-Buddhism and postmodern psychoanalysis is intersubjectivity. In relational psychoanalysis, the individual is seen in a matrix of relationships which turn out to be the central power in her/his psychological development. By realizing why one has become the present individual, and how the personal development is connected with relationships, the freedom to choose and create a life which is more independent from inner restrictions should be strengthened. In Mahāyāna-Buddhism, intersubjectivity is a result of an understanding of all phenomena as being in interdependent connection. Human beings are a collection of different phenomena and in constant interchange with everything else. Personal happiness and freedom from suffering depends on how this interchange can be realized in experience. The article focuses on the philosophic-psychological fundaments in both approaches and emphasizes clarification of what the term ‘intersubjectivity' exactly refers to. This clarification is essential as well for the current dialogs in which it is often missing or vague, as further perspectives in this interdisciplinary field.