Henri Bergson: 'Homo sapiens, the only creature endowed with reason, is also the only creature to pin its existence on things unreasonable.'

Homo sapiens, the only creature endowed with reason, is also the only creature to pin its existence on things unreasonable.

In his profound statement, philosopher Henri Bergson encapsulates the paradoxical nature of humanity as the only species with both reason and a tendency to anchor its existence in the irrational. This quote provokes us to reflect upon the complex relationship between our rational faculties and our inclination towards the unreasonable. It invites us to question the interplay between reason and irrationality, as well as their significance in shaping our lives and understanding of the world. Delving deeper into this theme, we can explore the concept of philosophical absurdism, a school of thought that challenges traditional notions of meaning and coherence.Bergson's observation seems paradoxical at first glance: if Homo sapiens possess the gift of reason, one would assume they would prioritize rationality in every aspect of their lives. However, as history has shown, humans have consistently demonstrated a propensity to attach significance to things that defy logical explanations. From religious beliefs and superstitions to artistic creations and spontaneous emotions, our existence is often intertwined with the irrational.The importance of this quote lies in its capacity to remind us that humans are multifaceted beings, driven not merely by pure reason but also by a myriad of irrational forces. These irrational elements can encompass our desires, fears, intuitions, and even our subconscious impulses. It is through this ongoing interaction between reason and unreason that our lives gain depth and complexity.To further illuminate this topic, we can introduce the concept of philosophical absurdism. This existentialist view, popularized by thinkers like Albert Camus, argues that human existence is fundamentally absurd. It suggests that our attempts to find rational meaning in an inherently irrational world will inevitably lead to frustration and despair. Absurdism challenges the very foundations of reason, urging us to question the coherence and purpose we seek in life.In contrast to Bergson's quote, absurdism may appear to suggest that humans ought to reject reason altogether in the face of the absurd. However, a nuanced understanding reveals that absurdism does not advocate for irrationality per se; rather, it emphasizes the limits of reason and the need to recognize the irrational aspects of our existence. In this way, absurdism aligns with Bergson's proposition that humans are uniquely capable of embracing both reason and the irrational.This dialectical tension between reason and the irrational exists within us all. It is in the chaos of the unreasonable that we often find the most profound expressions of beauty, creativity, and inspiration. Artistic endeavors often defy reason and embrace the irrational, transcending conventional boundaries to foster a deeper connection with the human experience. Similarly, our interpersonal relationships are replete with emotions that defy logic, yet contribute richly to our sense of connection and understanding.Bergson's quote invites us to reevaluate our understanding of human nature, shifting our focus from a linear perspective that prioritizes rationality to a more holistic view that encompasses both reason and the irrational. By acknowledging and embracing the irrational aspects of our existence, we invite a deeper appreciation and acceptance of our own complexity.In the grand tapestry of humanity, reason and irrationality are not polar opposites but rather interwoven threads. Our capacity for reason provides us with structure, analysis, and problem-solving abilities, while the irrational allows us to explore the depths of our emotions, our imagination, and our very essence. It is this delicate balance that gives rise to the richness and diversity of human experience.In conclusion, Henri Bergson's quote illuminates the paradoxical nature of human existence. As the only species endowed with reason, we also harbor a penchant for embracing the irrational. This quote serves as a reminder of our complex and multifaceted nature, inviting us to explore the interplay between reason and the unreasonable. By introducing the concept of philosophical absurdism, we deepen our understanding of this paradox, recognizing that the irrational elements of our existence are not antithetical to reason but rather integral to our greater understanding of the world.