Jim O'Brien

The central question raised in this dissertation is whether John Dewey's philosophy can be fairly and fruitfully viewed as an American anticipation of European Phenomenology. We wish besides to ascertain if Dewey's contributions can be enriched by this more conscious comparison with Phenomenology. Dewey's long and remarkably productive career is reviewed in light of these questions. Martin Heidegger and Gabriel Marcel are brought into reflective dialogue with Dewey regarding specific mutual concerns. The gathered results lead to a positive reply to both questions proposed. ;Common elements which incline to a phenomenological interpretation of Dewey include his initial attraction to Hegelian idealism and his gradual transition "from absolutism to experimentalism." The formative influence of William James in various particulars also favors a phenomenological reading. A very clear compatibility is found in Dewey's unique and thorough-going reflections on the notion of experience. Finally, in his late career he seeks to solidify his adamant anti-dualistic convictions about experience and environing nature or situation through the foundational and unifying concept of quality. ;The thesis of phenomenological affinity is tested in concrete fashion by conversation with Heidegger. This provides substance to Richard Rorty's claim that "these are the two outstanding historical thinkers of the present century." The dissertation inclines more towards Dewey's position on technology, but is open to the further implications of their surprisingly similar convictions regarding the saving role of the creative artist. ;The final chapter, on Marcel, returns to the starting point of the dissertation, his and Dewey's enthusiasm over human communication. Due to Dewey's admittedly inadequate reflection upon human subjectivity, his inability philosophically to found such phenomena has become evident. With basic compatibilities of interest and methodology established, however, Dewey's thought can be invigorated by Marcel's grounded reflections upon the personal, the interpersonal and even the transcendent