Opening paths for the other: alterity and dialogue in shadowy times

Abstract

This article seeks to understand how ‘Care’ can be configured as an epistemological, ethical and political issue, through the radical consideration that the human condition is fragile and is shaped through interpersonal interactions. In this sense, this paper aims to discuss how Paul Ricoeur (1913-2005) perceives the importance of solicitude in the context of self-opening to the other, in order to establish reciprocity as a fundamental principle among individuals. This is possible through the articulation of the notions of ipsity and alterity in light of the intersubjective dimension established by solicitude, which is developed through the establishment of a dialectical exercise between oneself and another. In this way, a decisive contribution can be made to strengthening contemporary democratic societies, particularly in these shadowy times in which we are fragile and modest.