
History Unplugged Podcast
A Pre-WWI French Philosopher Was More Popular Than Elvis and Possibly Entered the US Into the Great War
Dec 26, 2024
Emily Herring, author of "Herald of a Restless World," dives into the extraordinary life of philosopher Henri Bergson. She reveals how his 1913 lecture created a frenzy in New York City, akin to rock star status. Herring discusses Bergson's role in persuading the U.S. to join World War I and how his ideas on creativity and freedom resonate in today's tech-driven society. The conversation highlights the decline of public philosophy and the need to revive Bergson's insights as we navigate modern challenges like AI and materialism.
43:13
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Quick takeaways
- Henri Bergson captivated early 20th-century audiences with his charismatic lectures, transforming philosophy into a popular cultural phenomenon.
- Bergson's exploration of qualitative versus quantitative time provides a relevant philosophical perspective for navigating today's technological anxieties and human experiences.
Deep dives
Henri Bergson's Rise to Fame
In the early 20th century, Henri Bergson emerged as a prominent philosophical figure, captivating audiences with his lectures in France and the United States. His engaging speaking style and ability to communicate complex ideas in accessible language attracted large crowds, even leading to significant events like a traffic jam caused by attendees rushing to his lecture at Columbia University. Unlike his contemporaries, Bergson's charisma enabled him to reach beyond academic circles and appeal to the general public, effectively transforming philosophy into a cultural phenomenon. This unique connection with his audience contributed to his fame, marking him as a 'rock star' philosopher of his time.
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