Reflection, objectification, thematization: on a heideggerian critique of Husserl

Abstract

According to an influential interpretation, epitomized by von Herrmann (2000), the stance that one takes on the reflective methodology determines a contrast between a reflective and a hermeneutic understanding of the phenomenological investigation. In recent years, authors like Zahavi (2003a, 2005), Crowell (2001), and Cai (2011) have challenged the validity of this interpretation. My aim in this article is to discuss the critique that Heidegger, drawing on ideas from Paul Natorp, addresses to phenomenological reflection (GA 56/57, 100). I first present three possible interpretations of Heidegger’s critique, and suggest the superiority of one of them. Secondly, I argue that in order to respond to that critique one must go beyond the defense of reflection indicated by Husserl in § 79 of Ideas I, and appeal to a distinction between thing-objecthood and thematic objecthood, suggested in some of Husserl’s later writings.