Sebastian Luft

Sebastian Luft is a Professor for Theoretical Philosophy at Paderborn University's Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Institute of Humanities, since October 1, 2023. He previously served as a Professor for Philosophy at Marquette University (2004-2023) and held visiting positions at Emory University, University of Graz, Universidad de Puerto Rico, Freiburg University, and Paderborn University as a DAAD Visiting Professor.

• Education:
  • Magister Artium (1994) in Philosophy, German Studies, and Classics from Heidelberg University
  • Dissertation (1998, summa cum laude) in Wuppertal
  • Habilitation (2013) in Würzburg

Luft's research focuses on Theoretical Philosophy, spanning transcendental philosophy, phenomenology, philosophy of culture, and pragmatism. He specializes in European and American philosophy from the 19th to 21st centuries, with particular emphasis on Kant, Hegel, Neo-Kantians, Husserl, Walther, Cassirer, James, Rorty, McDowell, and Brandom. His work bridges historical analysis with contemporary relevance, especially in cultural perspectives on power and philosophical pedagogy.

Selected publications highlight his contributions to phenomenology, philosophical education, and Neo-Kantian scholarship. As an editor, he has curated volumes on social ontology and Wilhelm Windelband's foundational texts.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship (2002-2004)
  • DAAD Visiting Professor (Gastprofessor) at Paderborn University

Luft's teaching integrates historical frameworks (Ancient, Early Modern, Modern) with theoretical philosophy. Current courses include seminars on phenomenology, Cassirer's cultural philosophy, and interdisciplinary modules addressing social ontology and higher education pedagogy.