Becoming with the World: The Philosophy of Gilles Deleuze

"We're not in the world, we become with the world; we become by contemplating it. Everything is vision, becoming. We become universes."

 

Gilles Deleuze, a philosopher known for his intricate ideas and deep dives into existence, offered this profound observation. Let's embark on a journey through Deleuze's thoughts, seeking to understand our dynamic relationship with the world and the concept of 'becoming'.

 

The World and Us: A Dance of Becoming

To Deleuze, our existence isn't static. It's an ever-evolving dance, shaped by our interactions with the world:

 

Continuous Transformation: Deleuze challenges the notion of a fixed identity. Instead, he emphasizes that we're always in flux, changing in tandem with our surroundings and experiences.

 

Perception as Catalyst: By observing and contemplating the world, we aren't mere spectators. This act of 'vision' is transformative, molding our being and perceptions.

 

The Intricacies of 'Becoming'

Deleuze's philosophy pivots around the idea of 'becoming'. But what does that truly entail?

 

Beyond Binary: Deleuze suggests that existence isn't binary. We aren't just 'this' or 'that'. Instead, we traverse a spectrum, continuously transitioning, influenced by myriad factors.

 

Interconnectedness: Our process of becoming isn't isolated. It's deeply interwoven with the world. As the world transforms, so do we, and vice versa.

 

The Universe Within: To Deleuze, the process of becoming isn't just about personal evolution. As we change and grow, we encompass universes within us, vast and expansive in potential.

 

Vision: The Key to Becoming

Central to Deleuze's assertion is the power of vision:

 

Not Just Sight: When Deleuze speaks of 'vision', it transcends mere physical sight. It refers to perception, understanding, and deep contemplation.

 

Active Engagement: Vision isn't passive. It's an active engagement with the world, leading to introspection and change.

 

Deleuze in Today's World

In the contemporary digital age, Deleuze's philosophy finds fresh relevance:

 

Fluid Identities: Today, with the virtual realm and social media, identities are more fluid than ever. People adopt, adapt, and evolve, showcasing the continuous 'becoming' Deleuze emphasized.

 

Globalization and Becoming: As cultures blend and borders blur, societies are in a state of flux, reflecting Deleuze's ideas on a macro scale.

 

Mindfulness and Contemplation: Modern practices like mindfulness echo Deleuze's sentiments. By observing and contemplating, individuals are more in tune with their process of 'becoming'.

 

Personal Implications: Becoming Your Universe

Adopting Deleuze's perspective has profound personal implications:

 

Embrace Change: Recognize that change isn't just inevitable; it's the essence of existence. This understanding can make transitions smoother and personal growth more fulfilling.

 

Continuous Learning: By continuously engaging with the world - reading, observing, traveling - you fuel your journey of 'becoming'.

 

Inner Exploration: Recognize the universes within. Delving into self-reflection can unveil depths and potentials previously unseen.

 

Conclusion: The Dance of Existence

Gilles Deleuze offers a refreshing, intricate perspective on existence. By viewing life as a dance of 'becoming', shaped by vision and contemplation, he invites us to engage deeper with the world and ourselves.

 

In this journey of becoming, each of us isn't just a mere entity. We are vast, expansive universes, ever-evolving, and reshaping. Deleuze's philosophy, while rooted in deep thought, is a clarion call to embrace life's fluidity, to engage, observe, and revel in the transformative power of vision.