The Bergsonian Mind

Henri Bergson (1859–1941) was a twentieth-century philosopher who explored a wide range of subjects, including time, memory, free will, and humor. His work influenced many leading thinkers and philosophers, and he is acknowledged as a fundamental influence on Marcel Proust. "The Bergsonian Mind" is an essential resource for anyone studying and researching Bergsons work, covering his major aspects of thought, from his early influences to his continued relevance and legacy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Henri Bergson, a renowned philosopher of the 20th century, is widely recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to the field. His extensive work encompassed diverse subjects such as time, memory, free will, and humor, leading to the popular term "élan vital." A fundamental insight from Bergson's philosophy is credited with giving rise to this concept. His books sparked profound responses from esteemed thinkers and philosophers of his era, including Albert Einstein, William James, and Bertrand Russell. Bergson's influence extends far beyond philosophy, as he is acknowledged as a fundamental figure in the works of Marcel Proust.

The Bergsonian Mind, an exceptional and comprehensive volume, delves into the intricate tapestry of Bergsons thought. Spanning from his early influences to his enduring relevance and legacy, this book comprises thirty-six chapters authored by an international team of esteemed Bergson scholars. These chapters are organized into five distinct sections:

Sources and Scene: This section explores the foundational elements of Bergsons thought, shedding light on his early influences and the backdrop against which his ideas emerged.

Mind and World: In this section, fundamental topics are examined, including the relationship between mind and the world, the nature of freedom and determinism, the complexities of memory, the mechanisms of perception, and the foundations of evolutionary theory.

Ethics and Politics: This section delves into the ethical and political dimensions of Bergsons philosophy, exploring topics such as the moral implications of human actions, the role of ethics in society, and the interplay between individual freedom and collective responsibility.

Reception: This section examines the broad impact of Bergsons work on philosophy and other disciplines. It explores how his ideas have been received and interpreted by scholars across different fields, including literature, religion, sociology, and French studies.

Bergson and Contemporary Thought: This section explores the ongoing relevance of Bergsons philosophy in contemporary times. It examines how his ideas resonate with contemporary issues and challenges, and how they can be applied to address modern-day concerns.

The Bergsonian Mind serves as an indispensable resource for anyone engaged in the study and exploration of Bergsons work. It is particularly valuable for students and scholars in philosophy, as well as those interested in related disciplines such as literature, religion, sociology, and French studies. This book offers a comprehensive and in-depth examination of Bergsons thought, providing a deeper understanding of his ideas and their profound implications.

In conclusion, Henri Bergson's profound contributions to philosophy have left an indelible mark on the 20th century. His innovative ideas and insightful perspectives have inspired generations of scholars and thinkers, and his influence extends far beyond the realm of philosophy. The Bergsonian Mind, an outstanding volume that encompasses the major aspects of Bergsons thought, serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to delve deeper into his ideas and understand his enduring legacy.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032137650