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Harry Lewis

Professor at Harvard University

Harry R. Lewis is a prominent American computer scientist and educator, currently serving as the Gordon McKay Research Professor of Computer Science at Harvard University. He has been a member of the Harvard faculty since 1974 and has made significant contributions to both computer science and higher education.

Academic Background and Career

  • Education: Lewis graduated summa cum laude from Harvard College in 1968 with a degree in applied mathematics. He earned his M.A. in 1973 and Ph.D. in 1974, focusing on computational unsolvability in mathematical logic under the supervision of philosophy professor Burton Dreben.25
  • Professional Roles: He served as the Dean of Harvard College from 1995 to 2003, overseeing various aspects of undergraduate life, including residential services and academic advising. He also held the position of interim Dean of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences for a brief period.134

Contributions to Computer Science

Lewis is recognized for his research in computational logic and has authored several influential books, including:

  • Excellence Without a Soul: Does Liberal Education Have a Future? - This work critiques contemporary higher education practices and has garnered significant attention.14
  • Blown to Bits: Your Life, Liberty, and Happiness After the Digital Explosion - Co-authored with Hal Abelson and Ken Ledeen, this book addresses the implications of digital information proliferation.46

He has taught a wide range of students, including notable figures like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg, reflecting his influence on future leaders in technology.23

Current Engagements

Although Lewis formally retired in 2020, he continues to teach and engage with academic issues at Harvard. He is actively involved in discussions surrounding academic freedom as co-president of the Council on Academic Freedom at Harvard.34 His commitment to education is evident through his ongoing seminars and lectures on classic papers in computer science.

In summary, Harry R. Lewis is a distinguished figure in both computer science and higher education, known for his extensive teaching career, influential writings, and leadership roles at Harvard University.

Highlights

Apr 3 · Harvard Magazine
Harvard Corporation senior fellow James R. Houghton to retire - Harvard Magazine
Harvard Corporation senior fellow James R. Houghton to retire - Harvard Magazine
Harvard Professor Harry Lewis - The Harvard Club of Chicago
Harvard Professor Harry Lewis - The Harvard Club of Chicago
Feb 17 · The Boston Globe
Critics say teaching on race can fuel antisemitism. Harvard professors say that's outlandish - The Boston Globe
Critics say teaching on race can fuel antisemitism. Harvard professors say that's outlandish - The B
Harry Lewis - Brief Biography
Brief Biography | Harry R. Lewis - Harvard University
May 1 · en.wikipedia.org
Harry R. Lewis - Wikipedia
Harry R. Lewis - Wikipedia

Related Questions

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Harry Lewis
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Location

Brookline, Massachusetts, United States