Cesar Nasr Collection

The collection includes published books, personal papers and archival materials by the late Dr. Cesar Nasr, the founder of the Lebanese Ministry of Environment (MOE) and its Minister from 1980 to 1982. The donation includes many of his published books, correspondence with prominent figures, press clippings and documents related to his research and his accomplishments in the field of environment and nature conservation. The collection was donated to the AUB Libraries in July 2013 by Mr. Nasr and his wife. It is of relevance to researchers interested in climate change, nature conservation, social sciences and politics in the region. 

Born in Bkassine (Jezzine) on December 26, 1924, Cesar George Nasr received his secondary education at the French Lycée in Beirut. He obtained a BA in philosophy and an MA in psychology, as well as a PhD in social science (1955) from the Sorbonne University in Paris. After finishing his graduate studies, Nasr opted for a career in academia, where he served in different functions and capacities. He was a professor at the Higher School of Letters in Lyon, between 1955 and 1970. Dr. Nasr acted as Director of Pedagogy for National Education in Lebanon, between 1956 and 1957 and as Professor of social sciences at the Lebanese University, where he chaired the Social Sciences Department, and served as Dean for the department between 1971 and 1977. Throughout his career, Dr. Nasr maintained close ties with the Saint Joseph University, where he served as Director of the Institute for Criminal Studies, between 1964 and 1966. He also acted as academic advisor for and as director of the Higher Research Center at the Holy Spirit University of Kaslik. Dr. Nasr was appointed Minister of State between 1980 and 1982, when he became a founding member of the Ministry of Environment. After his retirement, Dr. Nasr dedicated his time to reading philosophical and literary works, including those of Descartes, Moliere, and Racine, which counted among his favorites. Dr. Nasr passed away in March, 2014.

For more info check the finding aid: Cesar Nasr Collection, 1950-2013