Rethinking Humanism—in the Spirit of James Loeb
James Loeb believed in the power of education, culture, and responsibility. The James Loeb Society carries on this legacy and connects humanistic thought with the issues of our time.
James Loeb was convinced that education is far more than the transmission of knowledge. For him, it meant the ability to take on responsibility, broaden one’s horizons, and foster dialogue between people and cultures. With his famous Loeb Classical Library, he made the ancient authors accessible to a broad audience, thereby building a bridge between the past and the present.
More than a century later, these ideas have lost none of their significance. In a world marked by profound changes, humanism, cultural understanding, and the open exchange of new perspectives are regaining importance. James Loeb’s legacy serves as a reminder that education, culture, and humanity form the foundation of a free and responsible society.
Understand
Who was James Loeb? What shaped his thinking, and why does his legacy continue to have an impact today? Discover the life, work, and ideas of an extraordinary humanist.
Participate
Lectures, discussions, exhibitions, and cultural projects bring humanism, as defined by James Loeb, to life. Discover our events, become a member, and join the conversation.
Thinking ahead
The Loeb Classical Library, the European Alpine Academy, and background articles provide access to our intellectual heritage and invite readers to explore humanism, antiquity, and the present day.
A Role Model for Today
The James Loeb Society delivers the legacy of an extraordinary patron and humanist to the present day. We consider this as our mission.
James Loeb believed in education as the foundation of a free society, in the power of the mind to combat prejudice and dogmatism, and in culture as an expression of social responsibility. His thinking was not backward-looking, but rather driven by the conviction that openness, insight, and democratic dialogue shape the future.
Especially in a time of profound social change, these ideas are taking on new relevance. Humanism thrives on reflection, dialogue, and the willingness to engage with diverse perspectives.
Through the James Loeb Library, the European Alpine Academy, and lectures, discussions, and cultural projects, the James Loeb Society creates spaces for exchange between science, art, and society. It invites us not only to preserve James Loeb’s legacy but also to build upon it.
Become Part of an Idea
Humanism thrives on the commitment of the people who uphold it. The James Loeb Society brings together individuals who are dedicated to education, culture, and open dialogue. As a member, you support the preservation of James Loeb’s legacy while actively helping to shape his ideas. You support lectures, exhibitions, and cultural projects, foster new initiatives, and become part of a network that takes responsibility for our cultural future. We would be delighted if you would join us on this journey.
European Alpine Academy
The European Alpine Academy explores the James Loeb’s humanistic ideals in the present day. It brings together students, scholars, and leading figures from the worlds of culture and society in the “Blue Land” to engage in dialogue about the great questions of our time. The focus is on education, interdisciplinary exchange, and the shared search for guidance in a changing world.
The unique blend of nature, culture, and science creates a space for reflection and encounter. In the spirit of James Loeb, the Academy connects the legacy of European intellectual history with current societal challenges and fosters dialogue across national borders, disciplines, and generations.
The Loeb Classical Library
With the Loeb Classical Library, James Loeb created one of the most significant educational projects of the 20th century. Since 1911, the book series he founded has made the works of Greek and Roman antiquity accessible to a broad audience, both in the original text and in English translation. Generations of students, scholars, and readers interested in culture owe their direct access to the sources of European thought to this series.
To this day, the Loeb Classical Library is continued and continually expanded by Harvard University Press. It exemplifies James Loeb’s conviction that education, openness, and free access to knowledge form the foundation of a vibrant humanistic culture.
Events
Encounters thrive on conversation. Through lectures, readings, exhibitions, and cultural events, the James Loeb Society creates spaces for the exchange of ideas. Renowned speakers combine scholarly insights with current social issues and advance the humanistic dialogue in the spirit of James Loeb.