
The Department of Philosophy is deeply saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague Paul Benacerraf ’52 *60 (1931-2025), the James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor of Philosophy, Emeritus.
Paul came to Princeton as an undergraduate in 1948 and joined our faculty as an instructor in 1960, after completing his Ph.D. under the direction of Hilary Putnam. He retired in 2007 following an unbroken 60-year association with the University during which he served as Department Chair twice, from 1975 to 1984 and 1992 to 1999. Fortunately for us, Paul continued to be a frequent participant in department events for many years post-retirement.
The department sends our deepest sympathies to Paul's children, Nic, Natasha, Tania, Marc and Andrea.
The University flag over East Pyne will fly at half-staff in his memory January 15 – 17, 2025.
Read the full Princeton University obituary of Paul Benacerraf.
Remembrances from those who knew Paul are shared on the Leiter Reports blog.