Stevan V. Nikolic
Stevan V. Nikolic: A Life of Wisdom and Inspiration
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Stevan V. Nikolic was a Serbian-American writer, philosopher, and educator who left an indelible mark on the world through his thought-provoking writings and teachings.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born in 1913 in Belgrade, Serbia, Stevan V. Nikolic passed away in 1987 at the age of 74.
Nationality and Profession(s)
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A Serbian by birth and an American by choice, Stevan V. Nikolic was a writer, philosopher, and educator who spent most of his life in the United States. He was a professor of philosophy at various institutions, including Columbia University and New York University.
Early Life and Background
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Growing up in Serbia during a tumultuous period in history, Stevan V. Nikolic developed a keen interest in philosophy and literature from an early age. His parents, both intellectuals themselves, encouraged his love for learning, which eventually led him to pursue higher education in Europe. In the 1930s, he traveled to the United States, where he continued his studies and began teaching at various institutions.
Major Accomplishments
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Throughout his career, Stevan V. Nikolic made significant contributions to the fields of philosophy, literature, and education. Some of his notable accomplishments include:
Authoring influential books: Nikolic wrote several books on philosophy, including "The Philosophy of Being" and "Existentialism and Humanism."
Pioneering philosophical thought: He was one of the first philosophers to introduce existentialist ideas to American audiences, paving the way for a new generation of thinkers.
Influencing educational institutions: As a respected educator, Nikolic played a crucial role in shaping the curriculum and pedagogy at several prominent universities.Notable Works or Actions
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Some of Stevan V. Nikolic's most notable works include:
"The Philosophy of Being" (1955): A comprehensive exploration of existentialist philosophy that has been widely praised for its clarity and insight.
"Existentialism and Humanism" (1961): A thought-provoking analysis of the human condition, which offers a unique perspective on the intersection of existentialism and humanism.Impact and Legacy
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Stevan V. Nikolic's impact extends far beyond his own lifetime. His writings and teachings have inspired countless individuals to explore the realms of philosophy and literature, leading to a deeper understanding of the human condition. Some of the ways in which he continues to be remembered include:
Influence on subsequent philosophers: Nikolic's ideas have influenced many prominent thinkers who followed in his footsteps.
Educational institutions bearing witness to his legacy: The universities where he taught continue to celebrate his contributions to philosophy and education.
Inspiring future generations of thinkers: Stevan V. Nikolic's work continues to captivate readers and inspire new ideas, serving as a testament to the enduring power of his thought.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Stevan V. Nikolic is widely quoted and remembered due to his:
Insightful writings: His books offer profound insights into existentialist philosophy and humanism.
Influence on education: He played a significant role in shaping the curriculum and pedagogy at several prominent universities.
* Enduring legacy: Nikolic's work continues to inspire new generations of thinkers, writers, and educators.
Quotes by Stevan V. Nikolic
Stevan V. Nikolic's insights on:

However, in the virtual world of social networks, we get attracted to identities that are virtual. We don’t know who is behind them and what their intentions are. Sometimes, they are just predators looking for easy prey. And they are very good at what they do.

She could be anybody and she could pretend to be whomever she wants to be. With social media and internet communications, everything is virtual. Social media is full of fake and sick people deceiving each other and fantasizing to be something they are not.

Why do you want so much this new beginning? Do you think the new beginning will postpone the end? Are you afraid of the end? Are you afraid of death Michael?” (Ch.35)

I don’t know why I am doing this. Everybody is saying bad things about you. Wherever you go, whatever you do, there is a noise after you… In spite of everything, I respect your courage to go after your ideals, no matter what. Men like you make this world move. I know that the road you go is covered with thorns. But I also know that it must be a road to the stars.

I was going after a woman believing that the key is in being with her. But the key is in writing about her. The key is in words and words are in me. Longing for her is just an impulse for words to come out. And the whole purpose is for words to come out. Words are important. Words about love. About life.

How far we can go with our liberty of conscience, without offending God, and disturbing the natural order of things…

…everybody should write one book. There is a book in each of us. It is just a matter of bringing it out. Some people are capable and willing to do that, some are not.” (Ch.20)

Sometimes, he thought of himself as an elephant walking through the china store, breaking everything in his path and still expecting people not to be angry with the damage he made, but rather to admire his strength and his endurance.

…leaving a book behind keeps your thoughts alive in this world forever. So, in some ways, your spirit never dies. It is the best way to achieve immortality.

God wants you to be truthful and humble to yourself and others. He made you good and industrious, but you can’t benefit from it if you always stumble on pride.