ISAIAH BERLIN (1909–1997)

The personal life, political positions, & scholarly achievements of Isaiah Berlin (1909-1997) are remembered. Anecdotes that delineate Berlin's generosity, gentility, modesty, & sense of humor are shared. Berlin's critiques of Jean-Jacques Rousseau's & G. W. F. Hegel's respective theories of positive freedom & mistrust of technocrats to restructure democratic institutions are viewed as the product of Berlin's strong belief in humankind's free will. It is asserted that Berlin remained a fervent Zionist throughout his life because he believed that Jews needed their own nation in order to overcome the feelings of uneasiness & insecurity they have experienced living in other nations. Berlin's role in founding Wolfson Coll at Oxford & his service as the college's president are discussed. In addition, Berlin's relationships with his wife Aline, family, & close circle of friends are recounted. The accuracy & salience of Berlin's interpretation of mid- & late-20th-century life & his influence on the author's thought are also addressed. J. W. Parker