ABSTRACT
This chapter begins to articulate an account of Raymond Aron's political reasoning by examining some of the most significant issues discussed in the Memoirs. It examines the overall character and style of the Memoirs in an effort to discern the way in which Aron approached and treated the subjects he discussed. The chapter locates the underlying reasons for what is arguably Aron's most impressive and lasting achievement: his steadfast rejection of communism and totalitarianism, and his genuine appreciation of the strengths of liberal democracy. It discusses what Aron saw as the proper role of the public intellectual in a liberal democratic society as well as what dangers or temptations intellectuals faced when they entered into the political fray. The chapter articulates Aron's understanding of the purpose of higher education and the role of a professor, especially in light of the events of May 1968. It examines Aron's thoughts on friendship and genuine human greatness.
