October 12

Luis de Molina (1535-1600) was a Spanish Jesuit whose work aimed to harmonize divine foreknowledge with human free will. In his major treatise "Concordia liberi arbitrii cum gratiae donis" he introduced the concept of middle knowledge, influencing debates on predestination. His ideas sparked the Molina-Dominican controversy and left a lasting impact on Catholic theology. Molina's scholarship bridged rigorous philosophical reasoning with deep religious commitment.

Born in 1899 in Tromsø, Zapffe studied law and philosophy at the University of Oslo. He became known for his essay On the Tragic, which explored the human condition and existential despair. Zapffe was also an accomplished mountaineer, pioneering routes in the Norwegian wilderness. His writings influenced existential thought, emphasizing nature’s indifference to human suffering. Despite a modest academic career during his lifetime, his philosophical works gained greater recognition posthumously.

Ali Mazrui (1933–2014) was a Kenyan-American political scientist and philosopher known for his prolific scholarship on African affairs. He authored over 30 books, including the seminal study "The Africans: A Triple Heritage," which examined the continent's cultural and political heritage. Mazrui taught at institutions such as Makerere University, the University of Michigan, and Binghamton University, mentoring generations of students. His work bridged politics, culture, and philosophy, earning him global recognition as a leading African intellectual. Mazrui's insights continue to shape debates on post-colonial governance and identity.