Understanding the Genesis of ‘Beingness’ Through Subject-Object Relationalism: A Case of Pakistan

Abstract

This research develops a conceptual framework based on philosophical and theoretical discussion to examine the current delineated state of Pakistan; socially, morally and ethically. The thesis draws from philosophical reasoning of beingness by framing the use of subject-object relationship. Subject as individual self and object as the external environment, comprising of the others. In doing so, the aspect of relationalism is explored in defining the essence of beingness; existence and well-beingness of self. The subject-object relation is of significance for self-development, through the prospect of inter-subjectivity facilitated by acts of interaction and communication. It helps develop self, individually and socially, by providing a setting in which it gains self-identity and self-verification. Furthermore, the analysis illustrates that when subject-object relationship encounters instability, problem arises in the overall setting of reality. Theoretically, an individual self is unable to form a meaningful relationship with the others. Hence, leading towards an environment where self enters into a state of perplexity and is uncertain about its role, character and goals in life. This uncertainty causes intolerance and rigidness in individuals, creating a ‘sense of self’ which does not encompasses the ‘sense of others’. Thus leading towards a disunited and chaotic social setting. This approach is then applied on the case of Pakistan, where due to the incapacity of an individual self to relate towards its outer self effectively, it is giving rise to the ever increasing identity crisis, extremism and polarization, inevitably creating a fragmented disunited society. The research concludes by highlighting the need to humanize the education system, as education can help create a meaningful relationship between self and its surroundings, in order to gain a progressive and cohesive society.