Bergson and His Philosophy   By: John Alexander Gunn (1896-1975)

Bergson and His Philosophy by John Alexander Gunn is a comprehensive exploration of the life and ideas of Henri Bergson, one of the most influential French philosophers of the 20th century. Gunn's book offers a highly accessible and engaging survey of Bergson's key concepts, making it an invaluable resource for both scholars and newcomers to philosophy.

Throughout the book, Gunn delves into Bergson's philosophy, which centers on the concept of duration. He effectively highlights the key elements of Bergson's thought, such as the distinction between the mechanical and vital orders of reality, intuition as a means of understanding the true nature of existence, and the dynamic interplay between time and consciousness. What sets this book apart is Gunn's ability to make these complex ideas understandable and relatable, ensuring that readers with varying levels of philosophical background can grasp the core tenets of Bergson's philosophy.

Another strength of Gunn's work lies in his thorough examination of Bergson's major works, such as "Matter and Memory" and "Creative Evolution." He skillfully breaks down these texts, offering insightful explanations and illuminating examples to support his interpretations. By doing so, Gunn not only provides the reader with a solid understanding of Bergson's ideas but also demonstrates their relevance and applicability in contemporary contexts.

In addition to delving into Bergson's philosophy, Gunn also explores the cultural and intellectual climate in which Bergson lived and worked. This historical context adds depth and richness to the book, enabling readers to appreciate the broader implications and influences of Bergson's philosophical contributions. Moreover, Gunn's inclusion of biographical details allows for a more holistic understanding of Bergson as both a philosopher and an individual, shedding light on how his personal experiences shaped his philosophical outlook.

While Gunn's book is undoubtedly well-researched and insightful, it could have benefited from a more structured organization. At times, the chronological progression of ideas and themes becomes somewhat muddled, which may confuse readers seeking a more systematic exploration of Bergson's philosophy. Moreover, some sections could have been more succinct, as they occasionally venture into repetitive explanations that could have been condensed for the sake of brevity.

Despite these minor shortcomings, Bergson and His Philosophy remains an excellent introduction to the life, work, and ideas of Henri Bergson. John Alexander Gunn's expert analysis and engaging writing style make this book an essential read for anyone interested in delving into the world of philosophy. By presenting Bergson's complex concepts in an accessible manner, Gunn succeeds in bringing the philosophy of this revered thinker to a wider audience.

First Page:

The aim of this little work is practical, and it is put forth in the hope that it may be useful to the general reader and to the student of philosophy as an introduction and guide to the study of Bergson's thought. The war has led many to an interest in philosophy and to a study of its problems. Few modern thinkers will be found more fascinating, more suggestive and stimulating than Bergson, and it is hoped that perusal of the following pages will lead to a study of the writings of the philosopher himself. This is a work whose primary aim is the clear exposition of Bergson's ideas, and the arrangement of chapters has been worked out strictly with that end in view... Continue reading book >>