Mercer Times

Paul Benacerraf, a prominent figure in the field of philosophy, passed away at his Princeton home on January 13 at the age of 93. A Princeton alumnus, he earned his undergraduate degree in 1952 and completed his Ph.D. in 1960. He joined Princeton's faculty that same year and served for nearly five decades before retiring as emeritus professor in 2007.

"Paul Benacerraf was a field-defining scholar, a much-loved teacher and a defining presence in the philosophy department," said Benjamin Morison, professor of philosophy and department chair. "His brilliant work in the philosophy of mathematics has achieved classic status."

Mark Johnston, another colleague from Princeton, highlighted Benacerraf's influence during the 1960s and '70s when he recruited notable philosophers such as Richard Rorty and Saul Kripke to the university. "He was a life-changing teacher and mentor for many undergraduate and graduate students," Johnston remarked.

Benacerraf's interest in philosophy began during his senior year at Princeton after taking courses with John Kemeny and Robert Scoon. His contributions to the discipline include co-editing an influential anthology with Hilary Putnam titled "Philosophy of Mathematics: Selected Readings."

His scholarly work explored questions about human knowledge, especially concerning mathematics. In a 1998 interview with the Princeton Weekly Bulletin, he expressed curiosity about how finite beings can understand infinite concepts: "How can the finite beings we are have knowledge of the infinite?"

Gideon Rosen praised Benacerraf as a mentor who provided critical feedback while supporting students through their academic challenges. Paul Boghossian also noted that two of Benacerraf's papers became instant classics within philosophical circles.

Despite numerous accomplishments as a scholar and administrator, Benacerraf found teaching most rewarding. T.M. Scanlon described him as both "brilliant and tough," attributing his own career path to Benacerraf's guidance.

In addition to his professional achievements, Benacerraf held roles such as associate provost for special studies where he contributed to research advocating for women's admission to Princeton University.

Survived by his children Marc, Tania, Andrea, Nicolas, Natasha; grandchildren Sophie, Lucas, Audrey; friend Suzanne; grandnephew Oliver; grandniece Brigitte—Benacerraf leaves behind an enduring legacy in academia. His family encourages contributions in his honor to local National Public Radio stations.

A memorial service will be organized soon to commemorate his life and contributions.