Inaugural dissertation

An inaugural dissertation is a presentation of major work by a new professor or doctor, in writing and/or in public speech, to inaugurate their professorship or doctorship. This academic ritual is traditional in much of Europe (especially Germany, France, and Switzerland), although it is becoming less common in some countries and institutions. Some inaugural dissertations have become recognized as major works of their authors, such as the one given in 1770 by Professor Immanuel Kant at Konigsberg, then and until 1945 part of Prussia.

Wikisource has original text related to this article: Kant's Inaugural Dissertation of 1770