Robert C. Tucker - Intellectual Impact

Intellectual Impact

Tucker was a leading and pioneering scholar and educator. He led by personal example—his values and character—and by professional example—his creativity and productivity. He addressed issues of fundamental importance to the social sciences and humanities. He explored linkages between political science and Russian studies. He buttressed independent-minded and open-minded viewpoints with cogent reasoning, empathic understanding, illuminating cases, and fresh evidence.

As a member of the political science faculties at Indiana University (1958–1961) and Princeton University (1962–1984), Tucker profoundly influenced students and colleagues. Many expressed their gratitude at a 1988 Princeton conference and banquet in his honor on the occasion of his seventieth birthday and at a 2010 Princeton chapel service of remembrance and celebration after his death at age 92.