The publication of Histoire de l'histoire de la philosophie in 1973 marked a significant contribution to the study of philosophical development by Lucien Braun. Born in 1923 in Littenheim, France, he dedicated his career to historical inquiry and academic leadership, establishing himself as a specialized historian of philosophy with a particular focus on the life and thought of Paracelsus.
Academic Career and Institutional Leadership
Braun conducted his studies at the University of Strasbourg, where he later held professional appointments. His institutional involvement extended to serving as the President of the Presses universitaires de Strasbourg and the Université populaire européenne. Between 1978 and 1983, he occupied the role of President at Marc Bloch University, eventually transitioning to the status of professor emeritus.
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The scholar's bibliography highlights his engagement with both historical figures and the visual representation of philosophy. His examination of Paracelsus resulted in several works, including Paracelsus und die Philosophiegeschichte. Eine systematische Betrachtung published in 1965, Paracelse, nature et philosophie in 1981, and Paracelse in 1988. He also explored broader themes, such as Musique et philosophie in 1987, Conrad Gesner in 1990, and Iconographie et philosophie in 1996. His final significant publications included L'Image de la philosophie. Méconnaissance et reconnaissance in 2005 and Philosophes et philosophie en représentation : l'iconographie philosophique en question(s) in 2010.
Honours and Legacy
Over the course of his professional life in France, Braun received three distinct national distinctions. He was appointed as a Knight of the Legion of Honour, an Officer of the National Order of Merit, and a Commander of the French Order of Academic Palms. He passed away in 2020 in Strasbourg at the age of 97, leaving behind a body of literature documenting his research on the historiography of philosophy.
Fast facts
- Born: 1923, Littenheim
- Died: 13 March 2020, Strasbourg
- Nationality: French
- Alma Mater: University of Strasbourg
- Key Specialization: Paracelsus
- Notable Role: President, Marc Bloch University (1978-1983)
- Awards: Knight of the Legion of Honour, Commander of the French Order of Academic Palms, Officer of the National Order of Merit
Questions readers ask
What was Lucien Braun's primary field of study?
He was a philosophy historian who specialized in the study of Paracelsus and the history of the history of philosophy.
Which institutions did he lead?
He served as the President of the Presses universitaires de Strasbourg, the Université populaire européenne, and Marc Bloch University.
Achievements
- Officer of the National Order of Merit
- Knight of the Legion of Honour
- Commander of the French Order of Academic Palms
- Held posts at University of Strasbourg



