Cornel West

Who is Cornel West?

Early Life and Education

Cornel Ronald West was born on June 2, 1953, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He earned a B.A. in philosophy and religion from Harvard University in 1973 and a Ph.D. in philosophy from Princeton University in 1980.

Academic Career

West began his academic career as an assistant professor of religion at Union Theological Seminary in New York City. He later taught at Yale University, the University of Paris, and Princeton University.

In 1994, West joined the faculty of Harvard University as a Professor of the Practice of Public Philosophy. He taught at Harvard for 15 years before resigning in 2002 over a tenure dispute.

West is a prolific author and has written over 20 books, including "Race Matters" (1993), "Democracy Matters" (2004), and "The Radical King" (2015).

Political Activism

West is a prominent political activist and has been involved in various social justice movements. He is a vocal critic of racism, poverty, and inequality.

In 2020, West ran for President of the United States as an independent candidate. He received 10,096 votes, or 0.02% of the popular vote.

Legacy

Cornel West is a controversial figure, but he is also a highly respected scholar and activist. He has made significant contributions to the fields of philosophy, African American studies, and social justice.

West's work continues to inspire and challenge people around the world. He is a powerful voice for the voiceless and a tireless advocate for justice and equality.