TEMPORALITY AND WITHIN-TIME-NE
Temporality and Dasein
Foundation of Dasein's BeingTemporality is fundamental to the existence of Dasein, meaning human existence is intrinsically linked to our perception and experience of time. This connection shapes our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Historicality, which refers to the significance of historical context, is intimately intertwined with temporality, as Dasein navigates its existence through time. Our usual comprehension of history often restricts itself to events occurring in chronological order; thus, a comprehensive understanding of time as it relates to Dasein’s Being has often been overlooked in previous analyses.
Existential Understanding of TimeDasein inherently regulates its existence in accordance with time even before engaging with external measurements such as clocks. This self-regulation illuminates a discrepancy between having time and the sense of losing it—concepts deeply rooted in everyday experiences rather than scientific frameworks. Recognizing how Dasein interacts with time is vital for a thorough examination of its essence and behavioral patterns.
Dimensions of Temporality
Incomplete CharacterizationEarlier interpretations of temporality failed to capture all phenomenological dimensions relevant to Dasein’s experience. The intricate relationship between world-time and Dasein’s unique temporality demands deeper exploration to appreciate its nuances. Ordinary time, as experienced by Dasein, frequently aligns with readiness and presence but does not account for the layers of meaning imbued in temporal experience.
Ordinary Conception of TimeEach day, Dasein engages with time in practical terms, connecting through hands-on interactions within its environment. This understanding of time rarely exists on a purely objective level; rather, it is a complex amalgamation of both objective and subjective experiences. Hegel’s philosophical explorations attempt to reconcile notions of time with the essence of spirit, but this endeavor necessitates a rigorous ontological foundation, emphasizing the importance of uncovering the fundamental essence of both time and Dasein.
Structure and Intelligibility of Time
Understanding the ‘Now’The concept of the ‘now’ is pivotal in shaping Dasein’s comprehension of time. Dasein structures its time reckoning through concepts like ‘now’, ‘then’, and references to previous moments—creating a relational temporal framework. Engaging with time involves bringing forth meanings that resonate across past experiences, present awareness, and future anticipations.
Temporal StructuresDifferent aspects of time, such as 'now' and 'then', possess relational significance that is deeply connected to Dasein's concerns and future projections. The broader horizon of temporality encompasses moments of retaining memories, awaiting future happenings, and projecting one's existential trajectory. The linguistic and conceptual dating of events provides an interpretative lens that allows Dasein to navigate and understand the fabric of time itself.
Public Expression of Time
Public vs. Subjective TimeDasein's interactions with time foster a public temporal framework, shared amongst beings within a community. This public time transcends mere subjectivity or strict objectivity, forming a collective character that influences social interactions. The evolution of mechanisms for time-reckoning—like the invention of clocks—serves this communal dimension of Dasein’s existence, enhancing synchronization among individuals.
Nature of Time-measuringMeasuring time serves crucial functions in coordinating Dasein’s interaction with both the world and other beings. The very existence of public clocks signifies a shared experience of temporality that goes beyond individual consciousness, implying a social contract of time management emerging in communal life. Transforming personal notions of temporality into regulated sequences recognized by society shapes the lived experiences of all individuals.
The Genesis of Time Understanding
Evolution of Time-conceptionThe understanding of time represents an evolution shaped through utilitarian practices and social customs, rather than emerging from abstract, theoretical constructs. An existential-ontological framework sheds light on how time develops from Dasein's contextual dealings with the environment, influencing each individual's experience of temporality.
The Ordinary Temporal ExperienceAs Dasein maneuvers through its environment, it instinctively discovers and articulates its interpretation of time through lived experiences. Temporal distinctions are often closely linked to immediate concerns in daily life, revealing themselves in measures such as days, hours, and seasons, which serve practical purposes in organizing existence.
