Hermitix The Life and Philosophy of Henri Bergson with Emily Herring
Oct 16, 2024
In this conversation, Emily Herring, a writer and scholar based in Paris, dives into the life and ideas of philosopher Henri Bergson. She sheds light on his complex persona, revealing how personal struggles and societal contexts shaped his thought. Herring addresses misconceptions, particularly his debates with Einstein, and critiques the misrepresentation of his work. The discussion also explores Bergson's views on time, freedom, and creativity, as well as the interplay between biography and philosophy, creating a multidimensional portrait of this influential thinker.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Bergson's Unexpected Fame
- Bergson's lectures unexpectedly grew in popularity, overflowing lecture halls with up to 700 people.
- People even tried to steal his hair, demonstrating his surprising celebrity status.
Reasons for Bergson's Fame
- Bergson's philosophy, while original, likely gained popularity due to a combination of factors.
- His ideas resonated with the intellectual climate of the time, offering an antidote to the "disenchantment of the universe."
Bergson's Female Following and its Backlash
- Bergson was particularly popular among women, which his critics used to discredit both him and his female audience.
- This criticism extended to arguments against women's suffrage, citing their interest in Bergson's "intuitive" philosophy as evidence of their supposed irrationality.