Professor Ernest Gellner 1925 - 1995.

I was sorting out some old papers the other day when I came across an obituary of one of my teachers from London School of Economics - professor Ernest Gellner. He was one of the most outstanding lectures I ever came in contact with. He often spoke for a hour without notes, his knowledge was encyclopedic - he was a polymath. As professor of philosopher he was sometimes in conflict with other eminent philosophers like - Gilbert Ryle at Oxford. Gellner was devoted follower of the ideas of Karl Popper also of the LSE. Other teachers that I have benefited from include professor of Social Policy Richard Titmuss, professor of Politics Ralph Miliband and professor of English George Steiner. I wonder - do these teachers realise - what an impact they are having on their students? The inspiration they are able to convey about their subjects in particular and learning in general is infectious. I owe my many teachers a great debt - thank you.