The Question of Intersubjectivity in Zhuangzi

The article deals with the question of intersubjectivity in Daoists’ treatise Zhuangzi and shows how in Daoism a skeptical approach towards rationality and reasonable, logical understanding is reflected in the very topic of inter-human understanding. The author argues that in Zhuangzi “self ” is treated as uncertain and contextual; thus, according to a situation, it can suddenly transform and take totally different features. A popular and often interpreted dialogue between Zhuangzi and his opponent Huizi about joy of the fish is analyzed from the point of view of intersubjectivity – the author shows how the possibility of mutual understanding between two interlocutors as well as between human being and the fish or the nature in general is treated. The author argues that intersubjective relation according to Zhuangzi is possible not on a rational or empirical level but on a deeper intuitive, empathetic level. Finally, the author shows how this topic is treated in western phenomenology and dialogical philosophy.