Preface [Interfaces : essays in philosophy and bordering areas in honour of Peter Serracino Inglott]

Abstract

This book is a tribute to Professor Peter Serracino Inglott who, on turning sixty in 1996, retired as Rector of the University of Malta and head of the Philosophy Department at the same institution. It is written by people who know him well, having been either his students, colleagues and friends over a number of years, or distinguished guests of the Department and the University. The promptness and pleasure with which all those who were invited to contribute to this collection accepted to do so are a clear sign of the high esteem in which Father Peter is held, both because of his achievements as well as for his personal qualities - his intelligence, his sense of humour, his breadth of vision, his warmth, his great hospitality, his amazing capacity for work, but above all his kindness and generosity. Not everyone in his position and with his responsibilities would open their door at night the way he did to people who needed help and sought advice. Those who came knew they wouldn't be turned away. Often in his job, especially as Rector, Father Peter had to make decisions which he knew some wouldn't like. Though always willing to explain why it was necessary for him to do what he felt was right, he would also be acutely aware of the displeasure caused by his decisions and try, whenever possible, to mitigate their consequences. That he very often failed in this respect was what caused him greatest distress.