Kant is the most quoted philosopher of modern times. His importance in philosophy is comparable to that of Mozart or Beethoven in music. Although his writings are often difficult to understand, he has been esteemed globally for 250 years.
The popularity around Kant began during his lifetime, and since then every generation has rediscovered him. His work offered various points of reference: In the 19th century, he was the theorist of science; today, his political ideas take centre stage. The image of Kant has been multifaceted: Kant as a democrat, as a strict Prussian, as a German genius or as a great cosmopolitan. Currently, his status as a classic is being questioned by some for the first time: can a European expressing racist views truly speak for everyone?
The 200th Kant anniversary in Königsberg in 1924 was a major event. The comparison with Kant's anniversary in 2024 provides a good opportunity to reflect on our perception of Kant today: What does our rememberance reveal about ourselves?
"Kant has also had an impact on you, even if you haven't read him."
- J. W. v. Goethe to his friend J. P. Eckermann 11th April 1827