Emanuel Giovanetti 19.3.2025 @2024 Giovanetti Home SA
Martin Heidegger, the 20th century German philosopher, explored the concept of dwelling in relation to his view of human beings and the world. Although his thought cannot be reduced to simple sentences, there are a few key points that summarize his thinking on dwelling.
1. *Being in the World*: Heidegger argues that human beings are intrinsically linked to their environment, a concept he expresses through the idea of “Dasein,” which refers to human existence characterized by awareness and the capacity for reflection. Dwelling, for Heidegger, means being in a world that is not neutral but meaningful; dwellings become the context in which human life takes place.
2. *Living as Existential Behavior*: Heidegger considers the act of dwelling as a fundamental behavior that reflects the essence of human existence. It is not just about having a physical place to live, but about finding a sense of belonging and connection. Dwellings, then, are spaces that accommodate human life, relationships and experiences.
3. *Back to Home*: Heidegger places great emphasis on the idea of “home.” For him, home is the place where one’s identity is developed and where the most meaningful relationships are cultivated. It is a place of refuge and security, as opposed to the fragility of existence. Home becomes a symbol of stability and a deep connection with the world.
4. *Critique of Modernity*: Heidegger criticizes the progressive dehumanization of existence in modern society, where industrialization and technology have distorted our relationship with our environment. He argues that modern housing, which is often designed for functionality and not for human relationship, can lead to a lack of meaning and authenticity in living.
In sum, for Heidegger, dwellings are not simply physical structures, but existential spaces that reflect our essence and our relationship to the world. Dwelling means finding meaning, connection, and an authentic home in our life journey.
