Buberian Concept of Dialogical Existence: A Pathway to Reconciliation

This paper explores Martin Buber’s concept of dialogical existence as a philosophical framework for understanding reconciliation as a pathway to peace. Conflicts, alienation, and relational fragmentation are widespread in contemporary societies and threaten genuine human encounter and mutual recognition. The study will address these challenges by exploring Buber's differences between I and Thou and I and It modes of relationship and what this means for reconciliation. The paper applies a philosophical analysis approach and draws on relevant literature on the concepts of dialogue, alienation, reconciliation, and peacebuilding, discussed with reference to Buber's I-Thou. Through the analysis, it is suggested that reconciliation is not only about addressing conflict but also a process of relationship transformation through genuine dialogue. Buber's I–Thou relation is a recognition of the other person's dignity, openness, presence, and reciprocity in the encounter that leads to a person's genuine self. I–It, on the other hand, de-personalizes persons and, in doing so, alienates, divides, and dehumanizes. Reconciliation is possible when people shift from relationships that are objectified to those encountered in dialogue, thus restoring trust, ethical responsibility, and mutual recognition. The paper concludes that Buber's notion of dialogical existence offers a philosophical approach to reconciliation, focusing on the processes of reconstruction and renewal of authentic relations with oneself, others, and the transcendent. Dialogical existence, as a human encounter, is a very valuable basis for peace and a more humane society, because it is rooted in openness, respect, and love.