September 05

Born in Padua, Zabarella studied law and philosophy at the University of Padua, later becoming a professor there. He became renowned for his analysis of Aristotelian logic and his theory of scientific method, particularly the regressus method. His principal works, including Opera logica and De re methodica, influenced the development of modern epistemology. Zabarella argued for the unity of theory and practice and precise deductive reasoning. His lectures attracted students from across Europe, solidifying Padua's reputation as a center of learning. Zabarella's blend of scholastic tradition and emerging scientific inquiry left a lasting intellectual legacy.

Born in Stilo, Calabria, Campanella entered the Dominican Order and studied theology and philosophy. Influenced by Neoplatonism and Renaissance humanism, he developed revolutionary political ideas advocating communal property. His most famous work, 'The City of the Sun,' depicts an egalitarian theocratic society governed by philosopher-priests. Suspected of conspiracy against Spanish rule in Naples, he endured 27 years of imprisonment, during which he wrote treatises on astrology, metaphysics, and natural sciences. After his release, he traveled to France and eventually settled in Rome. Campanella's blend of utopian vision and theological reflection influenced Enlightenment thinkers. His life epitomizes the tension between radical ideas and ecclesiastical authority.

Otto Bauer was born in Vienna in 1881 and became a prominent Marxist theoretician. He was a founding member of Austria's Social Democratic Party and a key voice in its leadership. As Foreign Minister of the First Austrian Republic (1918-1920), he worked to secure Austria's position after WWI. Bauer authored influential works on nationalism and imperialism that shaped socialist thought. Facing political turmoil, he went into exile in Czechoslovakia and later in London and Paris. He died in 1938, leaving a legacy as one of the foremost intellectual leaders of European socialism.

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born in 1888 in Tamil Nadu, British India, and rose to global prominence as a scholar of comparative religion. He held academic positions at universities in India and England, including Oxford. Radhakrishnan's writings, such as 'The Hindu View of Life', bridged Eastern and Western philosophical traditions. He served as India's first Vice President (1952-1962) and then as the second President (1962-1967). His birthday is celebrated as Teachers' Day in India, honoring his lifelong dedication to education. A recipient of India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, he championed secularism and interfaith dialogue. Radhakrishnan's intellectual legacy continues to influence philosophy and public life in India and beyond.