Brazil's "Minister of Ideas"

In the Times story, Unger compares his Harvard experience to "paradise," but says, "There is a problem with life in the garden. It is not dangerous enough...

In the Times story, Unger compares his Harvard experience to "paradise," but says, "There is a problem with life in the garden. It is not dangerous enough...

The New York Times profiles Pound professor of law Roberto Mangabeira Unger, who is taking a leave of absence to serve as minister for strategic affairs in the government of Brazilian president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Unger has taught at Harvard since he was 24 and earned tenure before he was 30. Now, he advises Lula on matters ranging from the economy—he advocates a form of neoliberalism that emphasizes the private sector and the role of markets, but also encourages intervening in markets—to preservation of the Amazon rainforest.

In the Times story, Unger compares his Harvard experience to "paradise," but says, "There is a problem with life in the garden. It is not dangerous enough. Nothing in it can happen that will really shake you up and make you live."

Most popular

Harvard Weathers a Year of Turmoil

The federal government has launched unprecedented actions against the University. Here’s a guide.

Martin Nowak Placed on Leave a Second Time

Further links to Jeffrey Epstein surface in newly released files.

The Artemis II Mission Included a Harvard Space Medicine Experiment

Wyss Institute researchers are observing how human bone marrow responds to radiation and microgravity.

Explore More From Current Issue

Alene Anello smiling surrounded by four chickens in a natural outdoor setting.

This Harvard-trained lawyer fights for the rights of chickens

Alene Anello wants to apply animal cruelty laws to birds raised for meat.

Mercy Otis Warren in period attire writes at a desk by candlelight, surrounded by books.

The Woman Who Penned the Case for War

Mercy Otis Warren’s poetry and plays incited the Patriot movement.

A woman in glasses gestures while speaking to two attentive listeners at a table.

How to Cook with Wild Plants

From wild greens spanakopita to rose petal panna cotta, forager and chef Ellen Zachos makes one-of-a-kind meals.