Abstract

The principal objective of this book is to explain consciousness in terms of time. This temporal approach is encapsulated under the term ‘living present’ (lebendige Gegenwart), a concept that originally appeared in the late works of Husserlian phenomenology. By using this single concept to characterize the way in which both time and consciousness are experienced, Husserl innovatively reveals the close connection between the two. Our temporal approach to consciousness is in line with this reasoning. The essential characteristics of the experience of time—continuity, presentness, and directionality—are identified with three fundamental features of consciousness: unity, subjectivity, and activeness. This identification enriches our understanding of both time and consciousness. Moreover, by utilizing both the experiential and physical aspects of time, we may possibly find a common ground that bridges the gap between consciousness and the physical world.