In 1947, University of Chicago educators Robert Maynard Hutchins, then-president of the university, and Professor Mortimer J. Adler founded the Great Books Foundation to bring together avid readers to discuss enduring ideas and issues. Three years later, they collaborated with Walter Paepcke to establish the Aspen Institute, with which the Great Books program remains closely aligned today.
This five-week program invites participants to explore some of the most influential works in Western thought through guided weekly discussions. Moderators Paul Andersen and Ann Mullins will return to lead the 2026 series in person over five consecutive Wednesdays from 6:00-8:30 pm, on January 28, February 4, 11, 18, and 25.
Fee: $295, includes all sessions, refreshments, and reading materials. Scholarships are available. Sessions will take place at the Koch Building on the Aspen Meadows campus. The 2026 series will begin in January; registration will open and topics to be announced on November 5.
If you are interested in learning more about the series, please email Ari Mizrahi at ari.mizrahi@aspeninstitute.org
Great Books Series Contact: Zoë Brown, zoe.brown@aspeninstitute.org
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