The major 20th century American philosopher was John Rawls, and he has had a very significant influence, although he is probably not a household name.

Question: Which philosophers have stood the test of time?

Michael Walzer: Well, the major 20th century American philosopher was John Rawls, and he has had a very significant influence, although his name is probably not a household, a household term. But Rawlsian thought has had a significant influence in our law schools-- and the United States is a very law-focused country--a very important influence in our law schools and in political science departments. It has affected the debate, and after him I guess John Dewey was the other big 20th century American figure and his version of pragmatism and his conception of the political public and democracy. They have an influence. I don’t know; it’s not a measurable influence.

Recorded on: 2/27/08