June 02

Born Donatien Alphonse François in 1740, the Marquis de Sade became infamous for his provocative literary works that challenged contemporary morals and explored themes of freedom and human desire. A member of the French nobility, he also held local political office during a period of great upheaval leading to the French Revolution. His unorthodox ideas on sexuality and authority led to multiple imprisonments throughout his life. Despite or perhaps because of his notoriety, his writings would later influence debates on individual rights and the bounds of moral philosophy. De Sade died in 1814, leaving behind a body of work that continues to provoke and intrigue readers.

Cornel West is an American philosopher, political activist, and public intellectual born in 1953. He earned his Ph.D. from Princeton University and has taught at Harvard, Princeton, and the University of Pennsylvania. West's scholarship focuses on issues of race, gender, class, and justice in American society. He is the author of best-selling books such as 'Race Matters' and 'Democracy Matters'. A frequent commentator, West appears on major media platforms and writes opinion pieces for leading publications. He actively engages in civil rights and social justice movements, including Black Lives Matter. West's passionate advocacy and scholarly work continue to influence debates on democracy and equality.