Unterwegs zum Mitmenschen: Liebe des Nächsten und Mit-leid in der Spätphilosophie Cohens un im Stern der Erlösung Rosenzweigs

Abstract

In this paper we will develop, in the first place, a phenomenological interpretation of Cohen’s understanding of compassion. With this interpretation, I intend to illuminate the fundamental determinations of compassion that make possible the change from the general and objectifying commerce with the other and anonymous Human to authentic Proximity with the Human (Mit-menschlichkeit). In the second place, I analyze the general character of the Neighborly Love in Rosenzweig. In the end, I clarify the concept of »Compassion« as a »bridge-concept« that enable us to connect Cohen’s course from fellow-man to neighbor with Rosenzweig’s understanding of Redemption’s way. In this regard it is important to specify the coincidences (but also the differences) between Cohen’s »Compassion« and Rosenzweig’s Love, insofar both appear as fundamental determinations (Grundstimmungen) that enable the phenomenon of Redemption to occur as the fact that »the I learns how to say Thou to Him«.