ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a new perspective on current research concerning Husserl's image theory by proposing a genetic phenomenological theory of image-consciousness (Genetische Phnomenologie des Bildbewusstseins, hereafter GPB). Given that Husserl never elaborated on genetic phenomenology of image-consciousness, the current conception of GPB proposes an alternative path that Husserl could have pursued. Following some introductory considerations, the chapter outlines the basic structure of image-consciousness to substantiate an interpretation of GPB. It will be shown that GPB clarifies the basic structure of Husserl's concept of image-consciousness, and what are the three interpretative principles of GPB. Based on these considerations, the chapter presents three questions that the account of GPB must answer to prove correct. Then the “as-if I cannot” (“Ich kann nicht als-ob”) model will be proposed to explain the appearance of an image object. In addition, the chapter anticipates two possible objections to GPB and proposes solutions to each of them. In the concluding remarks, it will be demonstrated that the current interpretation of GPB opens rich potential for Husserl's analyses of image-consciousness.
