Duration is the fundamental reality from "summary" of Time and Free Will (Annotated Edition) by Henri Bergson
Duration, according to Bergson, is the essence of reality. It is not something that can be divided into distinct moments or measured in units of time. Rather, duration is a continuous flow of experience that cannot be captured or fully understood by our rational minds. This concept challenges the conventional understanding of time as a series of discrete events that can be measured and quantified. Bergson argues that our perception of time is distorted by our reliance on the intellect, which attempts to break down reality into distinct parts. This approach, he contends, leads us to overlook the true nature of time as a dynamic and ever-changing phenomenon. By focusing on duration, Bergson suggests, we can gain a deeper understanding of the world around us and our place within it.
In his view, the experience of duration is inextricably linked to our subjective consciousness. This means that each individual's experience of time is unique and cannot be fully shared or understood by others. This idea challenges the notion of objective time, which assumes that time is a universal constant that applies equally to all beings. Instead, Bergson argues, time is a deeply personal and subjective experience that is shaped by our individual perceptions and experiences.
By emphasizing the primacy of duration, Bergson invites us to reevaluate our understanding of reality and question the limits of our rational intellect. He suggests that by embracing the fluid and dynamic nature of time, we can gain a more profound appreciation of the richness and complexity of our lived experience. Duration, therefore, is not just a concept but a fundamental reality that lies at the heart of our existence.
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