

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.
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Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Intro
00:00 • 3min
The Evolution of Philosophy in Modern Education
03:26 • 20min
The Unexpected Stardom of a French Philosopher
23:54 • 2min
Philosophy, Popularity, and Patriotism
26:15 • 14min
The Decline of a Philosophical Giant: Shifts Before and After World War I
40:29 • 5min
Reviving Philosophical Ideas for the Modern Age
45:04 • 2min
Exploring Philosophy and Supporting the Podcast
46:56 • 2min