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

Massachusetts General Hospital's resident mummy undergoes restoration and study

MGH's resident mummy undergoes restoration and a medical exam.

Mindfulness—the unconventional research of psychologist Ellen Langer

Psychologist Ellen Langer's unconventional research. Plus, read about applying mindfulness techniques to eating.

Martin Nowak Placed on Leave a Second Time

Further links to Jeffrey Epstein surface in newly released files

Explore More From Current Issue

A close-up of a beetle on the textured surface of a cycad cone and cycad cones seen in infrared silhouette.

Research in Brief

Cutting-edge discoveries, distilled

A diverse group of individuals standing on stage, wearing matching shirts and smiling.

How a Harvard and Lesley Group Broke Choir Singing Wide Open

Cambridge Common Voices draws on principles of universal design. 

Four Labrador puppies—two black and two yellow—sitting in green grass.

What Do Puppies Know?

Canine capabilities emerge early and continue into adulthood.