April 22

Immanuel Kant (1724–1804) was a German philosopher, anthropologist, and academic. He is widely regarded as a central figure in modern philosophy. His works, including the Critique of Pure Reason, revolutionized epistemology and metaphysics. Kant introduced the concept of transcendental idealism and explored the limits of human understanding. His ideas on morality and ethics, such as the categorical imperative, continue to influence moral philosophy. He also made contributions to anthropology, theology, and the history of science.

Anne Louise Germaine de Staël-Holstein (1766–1817) was a French author and political philosopher. She wrote novels, essays, and treatises that advocated for constitutional monarchy and liberal principles. Her notable works include De l'Allemagne, which introduced German Romanticism to French readers. Staël hosted influential salons that became centers of intellectual exchange across Europe. She challenged censorship and wrote passionately on individual rights and the role of literature in society. Her ideas had a lasting impact on European thought during and after the French Revolution.

Giorgio Agamben is an Italian philosopher and academic whose work explores political theory, ethics, and the nature of sovereignty. His influential book 'Homo Sacer: Sovereign Power and Bare Life' introduced the concept of the 'state of exception' and redefined discussions on biopolitics. Agamben has held professorships at universities across Europe and the United States. His writings draw on ancient philosophy, literary theory, and contemporary politics to challenge conventional legal and ethical frameworks. He has published over twenty books and numerous articles that have shaped debates in continental philosophy. Agamben remains a leading voice in critical theory and political philosophy.