Robert Hessen
| Robert Hessen | |
 | |
| Personal Details | |
| Birth: | September 1936 New York City, New York, U.S. |
| Death: | April 15, 2024 (aged 87) Stanford, California, U.S. |
| Education: | Queens College (BA), Harvard University (MA), Columbia University (PhD) |
| Occupation: | Economic and business historian, professor |
Robert Hessen (September 1936 – April 15, 2024) was an economic and business historian known for his work as a professor at the Graduate School of Business at Stanford University and a senior research fellow at Stanford's Hoover Institution. A proponent of Objectivism, he was closely associated with Ayn Rand and her philosophy, contributing essays to her periodical and the influential book Capitalism: The Unknown Ideal.
Early life and education
Born in New York City, Hessen pursued his higher education vigorously, earning a Bachelor of Arts from Queens College, followed by a Master of Arts from Harvard University, and a Doctor of Philosophy from Columbia University.
Career
Hessen's career was marked by a strong foundation in both academia and public discourse. Before joining Stanford, he taught at Columbia University's Graduate School of Business. His association with Ayn Rand spanned 25 years, during which he was an active member of her circle, including the Circle Bastiat and later the Collective. His work often explored the intersections of business, economics, and Objectivist philosophy.
He was known for his role as a commentator on Milton Friedman's PBS series Free to Choose, and for his writings which included books such as Steel Titan: The Life of Charles M. Schwab and In Defense of the Corporation. His scholarly work extended to editing volumes and contributing to prestigious journals and publications.
Objectivist contributions
Hessen was integral to the Objectivist movement, contributing to its literature and engaging in public debates about capitalism and individual rights. His writings for Rand’s zine and his essays in Capitalism: The Unknown Ideal have been influential in promoting Objectivist principles.
Personal life and legacy
Robert Hessen passed away on April 15, 2024, at Stanford Hospital after a period of illness, surrounded by loved ones. Hessen’s personal life was as rich as his professional journey, marked by a deep love for books, music, and film. Survived by his family and remembered by peers and students alike, Hessen's intellectual contributions continue to inspire discussions on economic philosophy and business ethics.