Active Intuition and the Flow of Time

The Theory of Time in Nishida Kitarōʼs Later Philosophy

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to clarify and build upon the basic structure of the theory of time presented in Nishida Kitarōʼs later philosophy. Nishida discusses various themes - such as others, society, body, and history - in relation to his theory of time. Therefore, in order to see and understand the whole picture presented in Nishidaʼs later philosophy, it is important to reveal the basic structure of his theory of time. Nishida describes the structure of time with the phrases “the present faces the past and the future simultaneously,” “the present faces the eternal now,” and “what denies the present exists at the present moment.” This paper attempts to clarify what these phrases mean. The focus point of this paper is the relationship between the concept of “active intuition” and the flow of time. Nishida creates the concept of “active intuition” in order to clarify the mutual action which exists between the world and the self. Nishida defines “active intuition” as the superposition of our activeness and passiveness. Nishida connects this superposition with the structure of time and builds up his unique theory thereof. This paper reveals that “active intuition” enables the emergence of our normal experience of the flow of time.