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A Pluralistic Universe · Theme
Empiricism vs. Rationalism
How A Pluralistic Universe develops Empiricism vs. Rationalism.
Contrasts the empirical method of explaining wholes by parts and valuing concrete experience with the rationalist method of explaining parts by wholes and prioritizing abstract, logical systems.
Where it surfaces
- Lecture VI: Bergson and His Critique of Intellectualism
James frames Bergson's philosophy as a return to empiricism, opposing the rationalist tradition that prioritizes fixed concepts over mutable experience.