Axiological and empirical dimensions of closeness in Józef Tischner’s philosophy

This is the analysis of the axiological dimension of interpersonal relationships described by Jozef Tischner, pointing to empirical application possibilities. Jozef Tischner’s philosophy is primarily an attempt to reflect on the existence of various interpersonal relationships, the moment of meeting, closeness, mutual support, and communication between two people. Understanding the meaning of meeting, dialogue and the values of each person is a key element of his philosophy. The aim of this chapter is to prove the thesis that Jozef Tischner was a philosopher who focused on the problems of the people of “this land”. For him, being with people was a fundamental source of philosophizing. Jozef Tischner was deeply convinced that philosophical thinking is creative if it grows out of life experience that one gains by being with other people. To truly be with others, you need to be able to take responsibility for them, not just be around them. Jozef Tischner’s philosophical considerations have a clear empirical dimension, applicable in pedagogical practice, in social work, in therapeutic interactions and in everyday interpersonal relationships.