The doctoral dissertation completed in 1876 at the University of Strasbourg marked the beginning of a long career in philosophy and historiography for Paul Natorp. A central figure in the Marburg School of neo-Kantianism, he spent decades at the University of Marburg influencing significant thinkers through his specialized study of Plato and his contributions to pedagogy.
Academic Foundations and Career
Born in 1854 in Düsseldorf, Natorp was the son of a Protestant minister. His formal education took him to Berlin, Bonn, and Strasbourg, where he studied music, history, classical philology, and philosophy. By 1881, he finished his Habilitation under Hermann Cohen. His professional life remained anchored at the University of Marburg, where he served as an extraordinary professor starting in 1885 and became an ordinary professor of philosophy and pedagogy in 1893, holding that post until 1922.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Philosophy and Pedagogical Contributions
Natorp developed his reputation as an authority on Plato, notably through his 1903 work, Platos Ideenlehre. His academic output was extensive, spanning epistemology, logic, and social theory. Key publications include Sozialpädagogik, published in 1899, and his 1910 examination of the logical foundations of exact sciences. His later writings, such as the 1920 volume Sozialidealismus, reflect his ongoing engagement with the intersection of societal structures and philosophical idealism.
Influence and Intellectual Circles
Beyond his writing, Natorp served as a mentor and contact for numerous intellectuals. His students included Ernst Cassirer, Karl Barth, and Boris Pasternak. He maintained a significant influence on the thought of Edmund Husserl and the early career of Hans-Georg Gadamer. In the final years of his life, specifically during the winter semester of 1923–24, he exchanged ideas with Martin Heidegger, who had joined the Marburg faculty.
Musical Pursuits
Outside of his academic duties, Natorp was a dedicated composer. His portfolio included a cello sonata, a violin sonata, a piano trio, and approximately 100 songs, alongside two choral works. His interest in the intersection of culture and thought extended to his writing on music, exemplified by his 1920 work Beethoven und wir. He corresponded with Johannes Brahms, who eventually advised him against pursuing a professional career in music.
Fast facts
- Born: 1854, Düsseldorf
- Died: 1924, Marburg
- Citizenship: Kingdom of Prussia, German Reich
- Primary Employer: University of Marburg
- Movement: Marburg School of neo-Kantianism
- Burial Site: Main Cemetery of Marburg
- Notable Students: Ernst Cassirer, Karl Barth, Boris Pasternak
Questions readers ask
What was Natorp's connection to Plato?
He was a recognized authority on Plato, and his 1903 book Platos Ideenlehre serves as an introduction to his interpretation of Platonic idealism.
Did Natorp have interests outside of philosophy?
Yes, he was an ambitious composer of chamber music and songs, and he maintained a correspondence with Johannes Brahms regarding his musical work.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Marburg
- Fields: philosophy and historiography
.jpg)
