January 12

Born in 1772, Karl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel was a central figure of the German Romantic movement. He published groundbreaking essays on literature and philosophy, co-founded the journal Athenaeum with his brother August Wilhelm Schlegel, and wrote the influential novel Lucinde. His work bridged classical aesthetics and modern romantic ideals, shaping future literary criticism. Schlegel's comparative studies laid foundations for modern philology and literary theory. He died on January 12, 1829 in Dresden, leaving a lasting legacy in European literature and philosophy.

Born in 1919, Gustav Naan studied physics at the University of Tartu and later under Paul Ehrenfest in the Netherlands. He made contributions to theoretical physics, particularly in quantum mechanics, and published influential research papers. A prolific essayist, Naan wrote critically about Soviet scientific dogma and the role of science in society. His philosophical works examined the interplay between scientific methodology and Marxist theory, often challenging established ideologies. He served as a professor and dean at multiple Estonian institutions, mentoring new generations of scientists. Naan’s interdisciplinary approach left a lasting impact on the intellectual life of his country.

Daniel Bensaïd was a leading figure in the French New Left and a co-founder of the Trotskyist Revolutionary Communist League. He played a key role in the May 1968 student protests and later taught philosophy at the University of Paris VIII. Bensaïd's writings, including 'Marx for Our Times', blended classical Marxism with contemporary political analysis. An eloquent orator and prolific author, he critiqued global capitalism and advocated for democratic socialism. His thought continues to influence political theorists and activists seeking radical social change.

Roger Scruton was born on February 27, 1944, in Buslingthorpe, Lincolnshire, England. He studied at Jesus College, Cambridge, and held academic positions in Britain and the United States. Scruton authored over 50 books on culture, art, and politics, including 'The Meaning of Conservatism' and 'Beauty: A Very Short Introduction.' A staunch defender of traditional values, he served on advisory committees and founded the think tank The Salisbury Review. Scruton was knighted in 2016 for his services to philosophy, teaching, and public education. His work influenced debates on architecture, environmentalism, and national identity. He died on January 12, 2020.