Alfred Korzybski (1879-1950)

How is it that humans have progressed so rapidly in science, mathematics, and engineering, yet we continue to exhibit behaviors that result in misunderstanding, suspicion, bigotry,hatred, and even violence in our dealings with other people and with other cultures?

Alfred Korzybski pursued this question as an engineer, military officer, and extraordinary observer of human behavior.

Biographical Highlights

Alfred Korzybski (1879-1950)

• Born 3 July 1879 in Warsaw, Poland.



• Died 1 March in Sharon, Connecticut.



• At outbreak of World War I (age 35), volunteered for service in the Second Russian Army; assigned to General Staff Intelligence Department.



• Sustained hip injury when his horse was shot out from under him, as well as surviving a leg wound and internal injuries.



• In December 1915, assigned to Camp Petawawa testing grounds in Canada to observe new artillery tests.



• After collapse of the Russian army and the revolution of 1917, joined the French-Polish army for the duration of the war. Also assisted the U.S. government by lecturing on behalf of the war effort to sell Liberty Bonds.



• In 1919, met and married Mira Edgerly, an accomplished portrait painter.



• In 1921, completed and published Manhood of Humanity.