THE EXISTENTIAL DIMENSIONS OF SPACE: HEIDEGGER’S CONCEPT OF SPACE AND CONTEMPORARY SPATIAL TRANSFORMATIONS
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https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17392909Keywords:
Space, Dwelling, Heidegger, Existential Philosophy, IdentityAbstract
The concept of space has become a significant area of philosophical and sociological discussion in relation to individuals' identity development and psychological integrity. This study examines individuals' relationships with space through the concepts of dwelling and unheimlich (uncanniness), focusing on Heidegger’s understanding of space. The research aims to reveal the role of individuals' sense of spatial belonging in identity construction, psychological resilience, and existential well-being. The study employs the method of phenomenological textual analysis and constructs a theoretical framework based on Heidegger’s Being and Time (1927) and Building, Dwelling, Thinking (1951). The findings demonstrate that individuals' relationship with space involves not only a physical connection but also a psychological and existential bond. Particularly, contemporary spatial transformations such as forced migration, digitalization, and urbanization weaken individuals' sense of belonging, leading to identity crises and psychological adaptation problems. Within the context of Heidegger’s concept of being-in-the-world, the loss of spatial belonging brings about existential voids and identity anxieties. The results indicate that space is a critical factor in individuals' psychological well-being and identity development. Finally, Heidegger’s understanding of space provides an important theoretical framework for understanding the effects of contemporary spatial changes on individuals. While emphasizing the function of space in providing existential security for individuals, the study also highlights the need for broader future research exploring the relationship between space and identity.
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