David Keyt, professor emeritus of philosophy at the University of Washington, Seattle, died last month.

David Keyt was well-known for his work in ancient philosophy, particularly the political and ethical arguments in Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics and Politics and in Plato’s Republic. His books include Nature and Justice: Studies in the Ethical and Political Philosophy of Plato and Aristotle (2017) and Aristotle: Politics V and VI, Translation and Commentary (1999). He also edited several collections, including Freedom, Reason, and the Polis: Essays in Ancient Greek Political Philosophy (with Fred Miller) (2007) and A Companion to Aristotle’s Politics (1991). A festschrift, Reason and Analysis in Ancient Greek Philosophy: Essays in Honor of David Keyt, which includes an intellectual memoir by Keyt, was published in 2013. You can learn more about his writings here.

Professor Keyt joined the faculty of the Department of Philosophy at the University of Washington, Seattle in 1957, retiring in 2013. In retirement, he held the title of Research Professor for the Center for the Philosophy of Freedom at the University of Arizona. He earned his PhD from Cornell University and his BA from Kenyon College.

In a memorial notice his colleagues write:

David’s memoir essay notes that he was given Spinoza’s Ethics as a high school graduation present. His parents inscribed the book with this anticipatory hope: “We predict David will also become a great philosopher in his day.” Indeed. As the co-editors of Reason and Analysis note, David is “widely acknowledged as a master in applying philosophical analysis to the interpretation and criticism of ancient texts and the demonstration of their relevance to modern philosophical issues.” He will be long remembered for his philosophical works, his legendary teaching, and his friendly and supportive collegiality.

David Keyt died on January 31st, 2025.