Origin of organization

pp. 23-53

in: Aron Gurwitsch, The collected works of Aron Gurwitsch (1901-1973) III, Berlin, Springer, 2010

Abstract

Above we mentioned James's distinction between "focus" and "margin." If there is a certain organization in the "field of consciousness," it must not, according to James, be considered as a primary, original, and authentic feature of experience. Whatever organization exists in conscious life is bestowed and superimposed on it from without. James abided by this tenet throughout all stages of his development.