Define Becoming.

"Becoming" is a philosophical and metaphysical concept that encompasses the process of change, transition, or transformation. It denotes the dynamic and temporal nature of existence, highlighting the continual flux and development of things over time. The concept is prominent in the philosophies of thinkers such as Heraclitus and process philosophers like Alfred North Whitehead.

In Heraclitus' philosophy, becoming is central to his famous aphorism, "You cannot step into the same river twice." He emphasizes the constant flow and change inherent in the world, suggesting that everything is in a state of perpetual becoming, with no fixed or permanent identity.

In a broader metaphysical sense, becoming contrasts with "being," which denotes static existence. Becoming acknowledges the fluidity and evolutionary nature of reality, where entities undergo continuous transitions and developments. It is associated with the idea that nothing remains static, and all things are in a state of constant transformation.

In contemporary philosophy, becoming is explored in the context of process metaphysics, which posits that the fundamental nature of reality is dynamic and characterized by ongoing processes rather than fixed entities. It invites reflection on the temporal dimension of existence and the intricate interplay of change, growth, and emergence in the fabric of the universe.