Hubert J.M. Hermans
Psychological Bulletin, 1996, 119, 31-50
Abstract
The notion of dialogue implies an interchange between mutually influencing voices. Two metaphors playing a major role in contemporary research are analyzed from the perspective of this notion: the computer metaphor, in which the self is studied as an information processing device, and the narrative metaphor, in which story and storytelling are guiding principles for the self. It is argued that, on the metaphorical level, both the computer and the narrative analogy, allow the notion of voice and intersubjective exchange to play a role of importance in self- organization. In actual research, however, these elements are rather neglected. Theoretical and empirical arguments are provided emphasizing the relevance of the dialogical view for the study of the self. One implication is an extension from a multifaceted to a multivoiced view in the information processing area, another implication is the inclusion of spatial dimension in addition to the temporal dimension in the narrative domain. Finally, two perspectives are sketched: the role of dominance in inter- and intrapersonal processes, and the relevance of collective voices for contemporary psychology.
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