Henri Bergson dan Kritiknya terhadap Materialisme: Sebuah Tinjauan

Henri Bergson, a prominent French philosopher of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, is renowned for his profound critique of materialism. His philosophical insights challenged the prevailing scientific and philosophical paradigms of his time, offering a unique perspective on the nature of reality, consciousness, and the human experience. This essay delves into Bergson's critique of materialism, exploring his key arguments and their enduring significance in contemporary thought.

Bergson's Critique of Materialism: A Philosophical Challenge

Bergson's critique of materialism stemmed from his fundamental belief that the material world, as understood by science, could not fully account for the richness and complexity of human experience. He argued that materialism, with its focus on matter and its mechanical laws, failed to grasp the essence of consciousness, creativity, and the dynamic nature of reality. Bergson saw the material world as a static and inert realm, incapable of explaining the fluidity and dynamism of life.

The Concept of Durée: Time as Lived Experience

Central to Bergson's critique of materialism is his concept of *durée*, which translates to "duration" or "lived time." Bergson argued that time, as experienced by humans, is not a linear and homogeneous entity, as conceived by science. Instead, *durée* is a continuous flow of consciousness, a dynamic and ever-changing stream of perceptions, memories, and emotions. This subjective experience of time, according to Bergson, is fundamentally different from the objective and measurable time of science.

The Creative Elan Vital: A Dynamic Force of Life

Bergson further challenged materialism by introducing the concept of *élan vital*, a vital force or creative impulse that drives the evolution of life. He argued that the material world, with its deterministic laws, could not account for the emergence of new forms of life, the diversity of species, and the inherent creativity of the living world. The *élan vital*, according to Bergson, is a non-material force that animates and shapes life, constantly pushing it towards new possibilities.

Intuition and the Limits of Reason

Bergson believed that reason, while a valuable tool for understanding the material world, is limited in its ability to grasp the essence of life and consciousness. He argued that intuition, a direct and immediate grasp of reality, is necessary to access the depths of human experience. Intuition, according to Bergson, allows us to transcend the limitations of reason and connect with the dynamic flow of *durée* and the creative force of the *élan vital*.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Bergson's Critique

Henri Bergson's critique of materialism remains a significant contribution to philosophical thought. His emphasis on the subjective experience of time, the creative force of life, and the importance of intuition has challenged the dominant scientific and philosophical paradigms of his time and continues to resonate with contemporary thinkers. Bergson's work has inspired a renewed appreciation for the complexity of human experience and the limitations of purely materialist explanations of reality. His insights continue to inform discussions on consciousness, creativity, and the nature of time, reminding us that the human experience is richer and more dynamic than any purely materialist account can capture.