Dr. Michael Forster

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Michael Forster is a Visiting Professor at the University of Chicago Law School and has been a prominent figure in philosophical studies since March 2013, when he became the Alexander von Humboldt Professor, holding the Chair in Theoretical Philosophy at the University of Bonn. His research focuses on both historical and systematic aspects of philosophy, with a primary emphasis on German philosophy and a secondary focus on ancient philosophy. Forster is especially interested in epistemology, particularly skepticism, and the philosophy of language, exploring central questions about the relationship between thought and language, the nature of meaning, and interpretation. His work often straddles the line between historical-exegetical approaches and systematic philosophical inquiry, with notable contributions including analysis of Hegel's Phenomenology of Spirit and considerations on the philosophy of thinkers like Herder and Wittgenstein. This diverse engagement with both historical texts and contemporary philosophical debates marks Forster's contribution to modern philosophical discourse.

Research Interests

Experience

Visiting Professor

2013-03-01 — Present

University of Chicago Law School • Chicago, IL

Teaching philosophy, focusing on historical and systematic aspects.

Alexander von Humboldt Professor

2013-03-01 — Present

University of Bonn • Bonn, Germany

Held Chair in Theoretical Philosophy, co-director of the International Center for Philosophy.

Requirements for University of Chicago

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:104
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree Writing sample Candidate statement
Application Checklist
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Specialization Notes

Department of Philosophy