James Bennet writes the Lexington column for The Economist. He was previously the editorial page editor of the New York Times and editor-in-chief and co-president of The Atlantic. Before that, Bennet held assorted reporting roles at the Times, including Jerusalem bureau chief, Sunday magazine staff writer, and White House correspondent. He was also an editor of The Washington Monthly.
"Lexington" Columnist
The Economist
Upcoming events
Discover what’s coming up in the Academy’s public program this semester.
Kurt Viermetz Discussion
Unpacking the results of the 2026 midterm elections with “The Economist’s” James Bennet
12 Nov 2026
Past events
Lectures, readings, and conversations from the Academy’s public program.
Berlin Journal Articles
Essays, interviews, and creative work published in the Academy’s annual magazine.
Books
Books written by fellows of the Academy, many begun during a semester in Berlin.
Explore Past Distinguished Visitors
Jill Abramson
Former Executive Editor, The New York Times; Senior Lecturer, Harvard University
David Adjmi
Playwright, London
Mahnaz Afkhami
Founder and President, Women’s Learning Partnership
Liaquat Ahamed
Author and Investment Manager, Aspen Insurance Holdings Limited