February 13

Henrik Steffens was born in 1773 in Stavanger, Norway, and studied natural philosophy at several European universities. A disciple of the German philosopher Friedrich Schelling, he became a key figure in the early Romantic movement by linking nature, science, and art. His lectures, delivered in Berlin and Jena, inspired writers and intellectuals to embrace the ideas of Romanticism and the unity of the natural world. Steffens also published poetry and scientific writings that explored the relationship between physical phenomena and human imagination. Later in life, he held academic posts and continued to influence European thought. He died in 1845, leaving a legacy as a bridge between the Enlightenment and Romantic eras.

P. F. Strawson, born in 1919, was a leading figure in 20th century analytic philosophy. He earned acclaim for his 1959 book 'Individuals,' which reexamined the philosophy of identity and reference. Strawson's critique of Immanuel Kant in 'The Bounds of Sense' brought fresh insights into transcendental arguments. As a professor at Oxford, he mentored generations of philosophers and contributed significant essays on descriptive metaphysics. His clear prose and rigorous analysis helped shape modern philosophical discourse. He continued writing and lecturing until his death in 2006, leaving a profound legacy in the study of language and mind.