Towards a Phenomenology of Life and the Invisible: Generativity and Sonship in the Thought of Michel Henry

Abstract

The philosophical reflection of the Twentieth century has drawn fruitful inspiration from Husserl’s lesson on phenomenology, whose originality lies in the intentionality of consciousness. The possibility of observing the conscience reversed from inside out, aside itself, defined by objects of intent and not by our awareness of intentionalising them, has in fact worn-down the relationship between consciousness and self-awareness, paving the way towards a new philosophy of being and relating in the world. In particular, Michel Henry traces a pathway that leads from the superficial “outer” appearance, the exterior of the phenomenon to the discovery the invisible law of the life itself. The radical opposition between the phenomenality of the world and the phenomenality of life is thematized within the horizon of meaning offered by Christianity, where God manifests himself in giving life, in the Incarnation of the Word into flesh. Regaining our status as Sons allows us to achieve an ethical horizon in which the care and concern for others allows us to discover not foreigners but brothers, since we are sons of one Father in Christ. In this sense Generativity and Sonship become an indication to follow the path of sharing and joint participation, in pain and pleasure, in love and respect for that only Life, worthy to be honoured and defended in every respect.