The Collected Works of Henri Bergson

In 'The Collected Works of Henri Bergson,' the profound insights of one of the most influential philosophers of the early 20th century are gathered, showcasing his unique approach to metaphysics, time, and consciousness. Bergson's literary style is characterized by clarity and depth, employing rich metaphors and vivid imagery that transcend traditional philosophy. His seminal ideas, such as 'élan vital' and the distinction between linear time and the lived experience of time, are explored within the context of a rapidly changing world, influenced by scientific advancement and existential questioning, making this collection both a historical artifact and a philosophical treasure. Henri Bergson, a French philosopher and Nobel laureate, revolutionized philosophical thought by bridging the gap between the empirical and the intuitive. His academic background in mathematics and science shaped his unique perspective on the essence of life and creativity. The evolution of Bergson's thought reflects his engagement with contemporaries such as William James and Albert Einstein, as well as his response to the mechanistic views of the universe that dominated his era. This collection is indispensable for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of modern philosophy. Readers will find Bergson's explorative questions on perception and reality profoundly relevant, as they resonate with contemporary issues of identity and existence. Whether you are a seasoned philosopher or a curious newcomer, Bergson's works invite reflection and inspire a renewed appreciation for the complexities of life.

Henri Bergson (1859-1941) was a prominent French philosopher known for his innovative blend of modern scientific thinking with the philosophical traditions of his time. Born in Paris to a Jewish family of Polish descent, Bergson was a precocious student, winning several prizes for his work in philosophy. As a professor at the Collège de France, he gained widespread acclaim for his lectures and the publication of several significant works that have left a lasting impact on both philosophy and psychology. His opus, 'The Collected Works of Henri Bergson,' encompasses the most important aspects of his thought, through texts such as 'Time and Free Will' (1889), which introduced his concept of duration, a theory widely influential in the understanding of time and consciousness. Other notable works include 'Matter and Memory' (1896), 'Creative Evolution' (1907), and 'The Two Sources of Morality and Religion' (1932). Bergson's writing is characterized by a lyrical prose style and a refusal to be confined by the strictures of mechanistic science. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1927 for his rich and vital ideas, expressed with sophisticated artistry. Bergson's thought remains deeply relevant, influencing existentialism and process philosophy, and even extending to modern discussions in the realms of metaphysics and the philosophy of mind. His literary legacy continues to inspire and provoke thought across diverse scholarly domains.