August 10

Abai Qunanbaiuli (1845–1904) was a leading figure in Kazakh literature and thought. He introduced European and Russian philosophical ideas to Kazakh society and advocated for educational reform. His collection of poems and prose, known as the 'Book of Words', is considered a masterpiece of moral and social philosophy. Abai also composed melodies for traditional folk lyrics that remain popular today. His efforts helped codify the modern Kazakh language and cultural identity. He founded schools and translated works by poets like Pushkin and Shakespeare to enrich Kazakh literary heritage. Abai's legacy endures in Kazakhstan, where he is celebrated as a national hero and spiritual guide.

Jean-François Lyotard was a leading 20th-century philosopher whose 1979 work The Postmodern Condition: A Report on Knowledge became foundational in postmodern theory. He introduced the idea of “incredulity toward metanarratives” to describe skepticism of overarching ideologies. Lyotard’s interdisciplinary scholarship spanned philosophy, sociology, art, and literature, influencing debates on knowledge, culture, and politics. He taught at institutions such as the University of Paris X and the Centre for International Advanced Studies. Lyotard also wrote extensively on aesthetics, exploring the relationship between art and society. His thought continues to shape contemporary discussions in the humanities and social sciences.