Bergsonian Philosophy and Thomism

Jacques Maritain's first book serves as a sharp critique of Henri Bergson's philosophy, showcasing Maritain's deep understanding of St. Thomas Aquinas and its relevance to contemporary thought. Written in 1913, it reflects Maritain's intellectual journey, influenced by Bergson's lectures that initially offered him a defense of metaphysics during a period of despair. The work stands out for its youthful intensity, as Maritain confronts the shortcomings of Bergson's ideas through the lens of Thomism. A later preface reveals a more tempered perspective, highlighting Maritain's growth as a philosopher.