For life is tendency, and the essence of a tendency is to develop in the form of a sheaf, creating, by its very growth, divergent directions among which its impetus is divided.
Henri BergsonRead
Homo sapiens, the only creature endowed with reason, is also the only creature to pin its existence on things unreasonable.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Humans are unique in their ability to reason yet often base their lives on irrational beliefs.
This quote by Henri Bergson suggests that while humans are capable of rational thought, they paradoxically choose to focus their lives on beliefs and pursuits that lack reason. It highlights the complexity of human existence, where logic and irrationality coexist, ultimately shaping our motivations and actions.
Themes
ReasonHuman NatureIrrationalityExistenceBeliefs
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about why people hold onto unlikely beliefs in difficult times, this quote could illustrate the paradox of human reasoning.
More from Henri Bergson
All quotes βTo exist is to change, to change is to mature, to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly.
Henri BergsonRead
Laughter is the corrective force which prevents us from becoming cranks.
Henri BergsonRead
I believe that the time given to refutation in philosophy is usually time lost. Of the many attacks directed by many thinkers against each other, what now remains? Nothing, or assuredly very little. That which counts and endures is the modicum of positive truth which each contributes. The true statement is, of itself, able to displace the erroneous idea, and becomes, without our having taken the trouble of refuting anyone, the best of refutations.
Henri BergsonRead
Religion is to mysticism what popularization is to science
Henri BergsonRead
And I also see how this body influences external images: it gives back movement to them.
Henri BergsonRead
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