"Life does not proceed by the association and addition of elements, but by dissociation and division"
- Henri Bergson
About this Quote
This quote by Henri Bergson suggests that life is not a linear process of adding components together, however rather a procedure of breaking down and separating components. This idea remains in line with Bergson's philosophy of period, which mentions that life is a continuous flow of moments that can not be broken down into unique parts. By stressing the importance of dissociation and division, Bergson is recommending that life is not a static, unchanging entity, but rather a vibrant, ever-changing process. He is likewise suggesting that life is not a matter of merely including components together, however rather a matter of comprehending the relationships between elements and how they engage with each other. In this way, Bergson is highlighting the importance of comprehending the complexity of life and how it is constantly altering and progressing. By emphasizing the value of dissociation and division, Bergson is recommending that life is not a static, imperishable entity, but rather a vibrant, ever-changing process.
"Life is life - whether in a cat, or dog or man. There is no difference there between a cat or a man. The idea of difference is a human conception for man's own advantage"