Modern French Philosophy (A Study Of The Development Since Comte)
(This book provides a comprehensive analysis of Bergson's ...)
This book provides a comprehensive analysis of Bergson's philosophical contributions, making his complex ideas accessible to an English-speaking audience.
John Alexander Gunn was a British-born philosopher and educator who made significant contributions to the field of philosophy, particularly in the areas of French philosophy and the works of Henri Bergson and Benedict Spinoza. He later became an influential figure in Australian academic circles, serving as the Director of Extension at the University of Melbourne.
Background
John Alexander Gunn was born on April 2, 1896, in Liverpool, England, to James Gunn of McHamish, Caithness, Scotland. His background reflects a strong Scottish heritage, with a family deeply rooted in the intellectual traditions of the time.
Education
Gunn received his early education at Oulton School in Liverpool before attending the prestigious University of Liverpool, where he earned his Master of Arts degree. He continued his studies at the Sorbonne in Paris and the Collège de France, institutions known for their rigorous intellectual environments. His time in France was particularly formative, as it was here that he became deeply influenced by the works of Henri Bergson and other leading philosophers of the early 20th century. Gunn's research and studies culminated in a Ph.D. from the University of Liverpool, focusing on French philosophy.
Career
John Alexander Gunn’s career was marked by a profound engagement with both philosophical thought and education. After completing his studies, Gunn became a research scholar at the Sorbonne and the Collège de France, where he deepened his understanding of French philosophy, particularly the works of Henri Bergson. His early academic career was characterized by a strong focus on Bergsonian philosophy, which he explored in his influential work, "Bergson and His Philosophy" (1920). This book established Gunn as a leading interpreter of Bergson’s ideas in the English-speaking world.
In 1923, Gunn moved to Australia, where he joined the University of Melbourne as a Lecturer in Social Philosophy. His academic contributions soon led to his appointment as the Director of Extension at Melbourne University. In this role, Gunn was instrumental in expanding the university’s outreach programs, making higher education accessible to a broader segment of the population. He lectured in Social Philosophy until 1939, influencing a generation of Australian students and scholars.
Gunn’s scholarly interests were wide-ranging, as evidenced by his diverse publications. His works include "Modern French Philosophy" (1922), "Social Progress" (1923), "Benedict Spinoza" (1925), and "Livelihood: Economics for Social Science Students" (1927). Gunn also wrote a bibliography, "Psyche and Minerva," which guided students in the fields of psychology and philosophy.
Achievements
John Alexander Gunn's most significant achievements lie in his contributions to the study of French philosophy, particularly his interpretation and dissemination of Henri Bergson's ideas. His work "Bergson and His Philosophy" (1920) was pivotal in introducing Bergson’s thoughts to a broader English-speaking audience. Gunn’s scholarly output also extended to Spinoza studies, with his play "Spinoza, the Maker of Lenses" (1932), which brought Spinoza’s ideas to life in a dramatic context, reflecting Gunn’s innovative approach to making philosophy accessible.
Gunn’s role as Director of Extension at Melbourne University allowed him to shape the educational landscape in Australia, broadening the reach of higher education through public lectures and community programs. His academic influence was further recognized by his corresponding membership in the Institute of Literature in Paris and the award of the Hague Medallion for his contributions to Spinoza studies.
(A textbook designed to introduce economics to students of...)
1927
Religion
Gunn’s focus on Spinoza and philosophy suggests a more secular or philosophical approach to questions of existence and ethics.
Politics
John Alexander Gunn’s political views remain largely undocumented, though his interest in social progress and the human condition suggests a liberal or progressive outlook.
Views
Gunn was deeply influenced by the ideas of Bergson, which emphasized the fluidity of time, consciousness, and the creative evolution of life. His work reflects a philosophical outlook that valued intellectual progress and the application of philosophical ideas to real-world problems.
Quotations:
“To understand Bergson, one must think in terms of movement rather than static forms.”
“Philosophy must be lived; it cannot be merely an intellectual exercise.”
“Spinoza’s lens-making was no mere craft; it was a metaphor for his clear-sighted vision of the world.”
Membership
John Alexander Gunn was a corresponding member of the Institute of Literature in Paris, highlighting his active engagement with the European intellectual community. He also contributed to various academic societies in Australia, focusing on the integration of philosophy and psychology.
Institute of Literature, Paris
,
France
Australian Association of Psychology and Philosophy
,
Australia
Personality
Gunn was described as a well-rounded individual with a passion for both intellectual and physical pursuits. His colleagues admired his ability to make complex philosophical ideas accessible, and his students valued his dedication to teaching.
Quotes from others about the person
“Gunn was a bridge between the old world of European philosophy and the new, burgeoning intellectual landscape of Australia.”
“He brought Bergson to life for us, making abstract ideas feel tangible and immediate.”
“His work on Spinoza was more than scholarly; it was an act of devotion to a thinker he deeply respected.”
Interests
Gunn was interested in the interplay between philosophy and practical life, as evidenced by his contributions to social progress and education.
Philosophers & Thinkers
Henri Bergson and Benedict Spinoza
Sport & Clubs
Tennis, golf, swimming
Connections
John Alexander Gunn married Margaret Linn of The Wirral, Cheshire, England, in December 1922. The couple’s life together in Melbourne likely involved intellectual and social engagement within the academic community, though specific details about their family life are not documented.