Related Experiment Videos
Subjectivity and objectivity in analytic listening
1Psychoanalytic Institute of New England, USA. Hfsmith1@compuserve.com
Journal of the American Psychoanalytic Association
|July 28, 1999
Summary
Objectivity and subjectivity are not opposing concepts but interdependent pathways to knowledge. Analysts misuse these theories by creating a false dichotomy, hindering effective technical recommendations and hypothesis testing.
Area of Science:
- Epistemology
- Philosophy of Science
- Decision Making Theory
Background:
- Analysts frequently employ subjectivity and intersubjectivity in technical recommendations.
- This often represents a theoretical misuse, conflating nuanced concepts with idealized extremes.
Observation:
- The dichotomy between objectivity and subjectivity is fundamentally flawed.
- A concept of subjectivity necessitates a concept of objectivity, and vice versa.
- Pure objectivity is an unattainable ideal, distinct from practical objectivity.
Findings:
- Objectivity pertains to the perception of the external, while subjectivity relates to the internal experience.
- Both objectivity and subjectivity are essential and interdependent for knowledge acquisition.
- Exclusive reliance on either naive objectivism or naive subjectivism constitutes a regression in analytical thinking.
Implications:
- Hypothesis formation and testing in clinical and technical fields require the integration of both subjective and objective listening.
- Recognizing the interdependence of objectivity and subjectivity can lead to more robust and accurate technical recommendations.
- Moving beyond a false dichotomy enhances analytical rigor and understanding.