Time and Free Will: An Essay on the Immediate Data of Consciousness

Time and Free Will: An Essay on the Immediate Data of Consciousness by Henri Bergson explores the intricate relationship between time and human consciousness. Bergson argues that our perception of time is fundamentally different from the scientific measurement of time. He introduces the concept of duration which emphasizes the qualitative experience of time as it flows contrasting it with the quantitative mechanistic view. This philosophical work challenges readers to reconsider how they experience reality and the implications of free will in the context of temporal experience. *** In this essay Bergson delves into the nature of consciousness and its immediate data suggesting that our inner experiences cannot be fully captured by external measurements. He critiques the reductionist approach of science advocating for a more nuanced understanding of human experience. By examining the fluidity of time and the role of intuition Bergson invites readers to reflect on the essence of existence and the freedom inherent in human choice. His insights continue to resonate influencing various fields including philosophy psychology and the arts.