Time and free will: Book Guide, Author and Facts
Time and free will by Henri Bergson: plot, author, genre and where to read, in one evergreen guide.

Bergson proposes a theory of time and freedom. Considered an influence on the French New Wave filmmakers, and a philosopher interested in humor and creativity, Bergson's works are generally a little awkward in translation (originals in French), but are well worth the effort. Bergson's basic argument here is that we (in literate Western cultures generally) use ideas and images associated with space to think about time, clocks and calendars as obvious examples. He says this tends to limit spontaneity and creativity in the present, because we are always using familiar images and expectations to confront the new, and we tend to think of moments in time as hardened rather than fluid as they are. This reviewer found this book to be life-changing, particularly to the degree it echoes some aspects of Eastern philosophies, psychologists interested in the experience of time, and even contemporary
Quick facts about Time and free will
- Title: Time and free will
- Author: Henri Bergson
- First published: 1889
- Genre: consciousness, free will and determinism, space and time
- OpenLibrary ID: OL76679W
Where to read Time and free will
Time and free will by Henri Bergson is widely available in print, ebook and audiobook editions from major retailers and libraries.
Compiled from public OpenLibrary data. Availability and details can change over time.
Frequently asked questions
What is Time and free will about?
Bergson proposes a theory of time and freedom.
Who wrote Time and free will?
Time and free will was written by Henri Bergson.
When was Time and free will published?
Time and free will was first published in 1889.



