关键词: 写作主体; 写作主体间性; 活动理论; 英文科学实验报告写作

Abstract:

The traditional concepts of subject and intersubjectivity in writing originate from Husserl’s phenomenological perspective and focus on human factors in writing activities. Consequently, the subjects of writing are limited to the writer and reader, while intersubjectivity is confined to their bilateral interactions. This paper proposes reconceptualizing these concepts from the perspective of Activity Theory, which views writing as a social activity. Using English scientific experimental reports as an illustrative case, the paper redefines the subject and intersubjectivity in writing, elucidating the connotations of the subject and the mechanisms of intersubjectivity. It argues that, as a form of social activity, the subjects of writing encompass not only the writer and the targeted readers but also the subject matter, the instruments and the written product itself as well as the socio-cultural contexts—both micro and macro—in which these elements are situated. The completion of writing activities emerges from dynamic interactions among these elements, forming the mechanism of intersubjectivity in writing. This intersubjectivity manifests primarily through three forms: sharing, interaction, and unification. This research aims to deepen understanding of the essential nature of writing, particularly scientific report writing in English, and to provide theoretical guidance for academic writing practice and pedagogy.

Keywords: subjects in writing; intersubjectivity in writing; Activity Theory; writing of English scientific experimental reports