Timothy David Gould

Timothy David Gould died peacefully on July 24, 2025, in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Tim was born on June 29, 1948 in New York, and lived a life marked by a passion for philosophy, film, and literature as well as an abiding love for his family.

After graduating at the age of 16 from Leonia High School (New Jersey), Tim studied at Harvard University where he earned his B.A. (1968) and his PhD in philosophy (1979). Although dedicated to his studies, during the summer of 1966, he participated in a voter registration drive in Mississippi. He spent several days in a Mississippi jail, due to the local authorities’ hostility to civil rights.

Tim enjoyed a distinguished career as a philosophy professor, imparting his knowledge and insights to students for over forty years. He taught at Middlebury College, the University of Texas at Arlington, Kansas State University and the University of California, Santa Barbara. In 1986, he joined the faculty of Metropolitan State University at Denver, where for some years he was chair of the Philosophy Department. In support of his colleagues and his commitment to social justice, he served as president of the local branch of the American Federation of Teachers.

Tim was active in the American Philosophical Association and the American Society for Aesthetics for fifty years. A student of renowned American philosopher Stanley Cavell, his book Hearing Things: Voice and Method in the Philosophy of Stanley Cavell was an important contribution to the interpretation of the philosopher’s work and significance. Tim also wrote on many topics in philosophy, film, and literature and was a strong supporter of feminism in philosophy and aesthetics.

Beyond academia, Tim had a myriad of interests. During his youth, he enjoyed hiking, tennis, and skiing. He loved books and films and was thrilled to talk about them. He was an exceptional conversationalist, displaying his wit and brilliance. His remarkable sense of humor provoked laughter among people from all walks of life.

Tim loved his family, of which he was immensely proud. He is survived by his daughter Claire, son Daniel, brother Jeffrey Gould (Ellie), sister Kathryn Gould (Doug), and their families.

Tim will be remembered not only for his intellectual contributions but also for the warmth and depth he brought to the lives of those around him. He leaves behind a legacy that will resonate through the generations of scholars, students and family who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

In lieu of flowers, Tim’s family suggests a contribution in his memory to the ACLU.