Berggruen Prize for Philosophy and Culture

The Berggruen Prize is organized by the US-based Berggruen Institute to honor thinkers whose ideas have enriched human self-understanding amid profound social, technological, and cultural transformations. Laureates are selected by an expert jury and receive a US$1-million grant. The prize was first awarded in 2016 to Canadian philosopher Charles Taylor, whose work highlights the role of language and meaningful relationships in human identity. Subsequent recipients have included leading figures in political philosophy, ethics, feminism, and social theory. Award ceremonies originally took place at the New York Public Library Main Branch each year. In recent years, ceremonies have also been held in Tokyo for the 2022 laureate and in Washington, D.C. for the 2024 laureate.

Laureates

2016

First awarded

October each year

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Berggruen Institute

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Ideas of broad significance for shaping human self-understanding and the advancement of humanity

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History

In 2016, investor Nicolas Berggruen founded the Berggruen Institute and launched the Berggruen Prize. The inaugural award was presented to Canadian philosopher Charles Taylor. Aiming to become a 'Nobel Prize for philosophy', the prize ceremonies were held annually at the New York Public Library Main Branch. In 2022, Japanese philosopher Kojin Karatani became the first Asian recipient, with the 2023 ceremony taking place in Tokyo. The 2024 award ceremony was held at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.

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2023

2023 Berggruen Prize for Philosophy and Culture