Experiencing the pandemic: a philosopher's perspective

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Abstract

This paper reflects on the experiences of the COVID-19 lockdown from a phenomenological perspective, exploring the fundamental shifts in perception, social interaction, and meaning during this period. It investigates how the pandemic reconfigured daily life, leading to a 'world shrinkage' due to physical confinement and social distancing. The analysis focuses on the pervasive existential fear, altered social norms mediated by technology, and the transformed sense of time and priorities. The paper emphasizes the collective nature of this experience, which redefined personal and communal life, highlighting the philosophical implications of our interconnectedness and the ethical considerations of caring for others. It concludes by examining how these themes are visually represented in photographic practices, suggesting that such creative expressions provide a unique lens for understanding the lived reality of the lockdown. The insights gained propose a reevaluation of societal values and personal priorities, advocating for a more thoughtful and connected post-pandemic world.

Keywords

  • phenomenology
  • pandemic
  • photography
  • lived experience
  • photographic looking

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