Jean Gebser Quotes
- Philosopher
- Germany
- 1905
Jean Gebser (1905-1973) was a German philosopher, poet, and linguist who is best known for his groundbreaking work on the evolution of consciousness. He proposed a new model of human history, which he called the “ever-present origin,” that emphasized the importance of understanding the u…Read More
Jean Gebser (1905-1973) was a German philosopher, poet, and linguist who is best known for his groundbreaking work on the evolution of consciousness. He proposed a new model of human history, which he called the “ever-present origin,” that emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying structures of consciousness in order to understand the present. His most notable works include The Ever-Present Origin (1949), The Structure of Consciousness (1951), and The Re-Emergence of the Divine (1962). Gebser’s work has had a lasting impact on the fields of philosophy, psychology, and anthropology, and his ideas continue to be studied and discussed today.Read Less
Jean Gebser (1905-1973) was a German philosopher, poet, and linguist who is best known for his groundbreaking work on the evolution of consciousness. He proposed a new model of human history, which he called the “ever-present origin,” that emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying structures of consciousness in order to understand the present. His most notable works include The Ever-Present Origin (1949), The Structure of Consciousness (1951), and The Re-Emergence of the Divine (1962). Gebser’s work has had a lasting impact on the fields of philosophy, psychology, and anthropology, and his ideas continue to be studied and discussed today.
Jean Gebser Career Highlights
- Gebser studied philosophy, psychology, and linguistics at the University of Basel, where he received his doctorate in 1929.
- He worked as a teacher and lecturer in Switzerland and Germany, and also spent time in Italy, France, and Spain.
- In 1933, Gebser joined the editorial staff of the literary magazine “Der Ruf” (The Call), where he published articles on cultural and political issues.
- In 1939, he became the editor-in-chief of the magazine “Die Wandlung” (The Transformation), which focused on the cultural and spiritual renewal of Europe.
- Gebser’s most significant work, “The Ever-Present Origin,” was published in 1949 and has been translated into several languages.
- He continued to write and lecture on his theory of consciousness until his death in 1973.
Key Contributions by Jean Gebser
- Gebser’s theory of the structures of consciousness is based on the idea that human consciousness has evolved through different stages, each with its own characteristics and limitations.
- He identified five structures of consciousness: archaic, magic, mythical, mental, and integral. Each structure represents a different way of perceiving and experiencing reality.
- Gebser believed that the current dominant structure of consciousness, the mental-rational, is in a state of crisis and needs to evolve to a more holistic and integrated form.
- He also explored the relationship between consciousness and language, arguing that language is a reflection of the structure of consciousness and can either limit or expand our perception of reality.
- Gebser’s work has influenced many fields, including psychology, anthropology, and cultural studies. His ideas have also been applied in areas such as education, leadership, and personal development.
What Sets Jean Gebser Apart
- Gebser’s theory of consciousness is unique in its holistic and multidisciplinary approach. He drew from various fields, including philosophy, psychology, linguistics, and anthropology, to develop his theory.
- He also incorporated insights from Eastern philosophies and spiritual traditions, which were not commonly explored in Western philosophy at the time.
- Gebser’s work is highly complex and requires a deep understanding of his concepts and terminology. He coined terms such as “aperspectival,” “diaphanous,” and “aperspectival world” to describe his ideas, making his work challenging to grasp for some readers.
Takeaways
- Gebser’s theory of consciousness offers a new perspective on human evolution and the current state of humanity.
- It highlights the limitations of the dominant mental-rational structure of consciousness and the need for a more integrated and holistic approach to solving global issues.
- Gebser’s work also emphasizes the importance of language and its role in shaping our perception of reality.
- His ideas continue to be relevant and influential in fields such as psychology, education, and leadership, and can provide valuable insights for personal growth and development.