"Bergson and His Philosophy" by John Alexander Gunn is a landmark work that provides a detailed analysis of Henri Bergson's philosophical beliefs, a notable French philosopher of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Gunn dives deeply into Bergson's philosophical views, clarifying his thoughts on time, intuition, and the essence of reality. He delivers Bergson's ideas in a straightforward and understandable manner, making them accessible to both scholars and ordinary audiences. Bergson's concept of "duration," a major part of Bergsonian philosophy, is one of the central subjects Gunn investigates. He investigates how Bergson's ideas challenged conventional views of time and provided a fresh look at human awareness and the meaning of existence. Furthermore, Gunn places Bergson's work in historical context, offering insight on the intellectual atmosphere of the time and the influence of thinkers such as Immanuel Kant and Arthur Schopenhauer on Bergson's philosophy. In "Bergson and His Philosophy," John Alexander Gunn not only provides a clear explanation of Bergson's views, but he also exhibits his own intellectual ability. The book is an invaluable resource for anybody seeking to comprehend Henri Bergson's significant and original contributions to the realm of philosophy.
John Alexander Gunn (1896–1975) was a distinguished philosopher whose academic journey took him from the University of Liverpool to the University of Melbourne. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Liverpool, where he honed his philosophical acumen. In 1923, Gunn's scholarly pursuits led him to the University of Melbourne, where he assumed the esteemed role of a professor. His tenure at the university spanned several years until his retirement in 1938. Following his retirement, Colin R. Badger succeeded him as the Director of Extension, carrying forward the legacy of academic leadership. Throughout his illustrious career, John Alexander Gunn penned several notable books, each contributing to the realm of philosophy. Among his literary achievements, "Bergson and His Philosophy" (1920) stands as a masterpiece, showcasing his deep understanding of the philosopher Henri Bergson and his profound ideas. Gunn's intellectual curiosity extended to various facets of philosophy, evident in his works such as "Modern French Philosophy: a Study of the Development Since Comte" (1922), "Wealth" (1924), "Benedict Spinoza" (1925), "Livelihood" (1927), "The Problem of Time: An Historical & Critical Study" (1929), and "Spinoza, The Maker Of Lenses" (1932). These works delve into diverse philosophical subjects, reflecting Gunn's versatility and scholarly rigor.
