Subjectivization

Subjectivization refers to the process of making something subjective; that is, interpreting or presenting it from a personal, rather than objective, viewpoint. It involves incorporating individual feelings, biases, opinions, and experiences into the understanding or representation of a concept, event, or situation. This can manifest in various forms, from shifting the focus of analysis to individual perspectives to infusing a narrative with personal emotional resonance. Essentially, subjectivization moves away from a detached, factual account toward a more nuanced, often value-laden, interpretation rooted in the subjective experience of an individual or group. This can involve a focus on emotional impact, personal relevance, or ideological alignment, rather than purely objective considerations.

Subjectivization meaning with examples

• Literary criticism often involves subjectivization; critics interpret texts based on their personal understanding, cultural context, and individual aesthetic preferences. This inevitably introduces a degree of subjectivity into the analysis, as different critics may draw varying conclusions from the same work. The process highlights different perspectives, fostering rich debate and broadening interpretation.
• The news media undergoes subjectivization when reporting on politically sensitive events. Editors select and frame stories based on their perceived audience's beliefs, thus introducing a subtle bias to the public understanding of key situations. The focus shifts away from objective accuracy of the event, giving the perception a different context.
• Artistic expression relies heavily on subjectivization. A painter might express a deeply personal experience through color and form, transforming an internal emotion into a visual statement, which is inherently unique to their personal perspective. This expression is thus not purely based on a simple description of the world, but the world through a lens.
• The historical narrative can be affected by subjectivization, especially when analyzing periods of conflict or oppression. Historians, influenced by their own social and political standpoints, may prioritize certain sources or reinterpret events to present a narrative that reflects their contemporary values. This can provide diverse views.
• Psychotherapy makes use of subjectivization by encouraging patients to explore and verbalize their own internal experiences. This involves acknowledging their emotional responses and subjective interpretations of events to help them find personal meaning and clarity. Therapists help patients to build an understanding of the patient's unique perspective.