October 22

Born in 1918 in Algeria, Althusser studied at the École Normale Supérieure and became a professor of philosophy in post-war France. His major works 'For Marx' and 'Reading Capital' offered a structuralist reading of Marxist theory and introduced concepts such as ideological state apparatuses and interpellation. Althusser challenged humanist interpretations of Marx and emphasized the role of ideology in shaping social structures. In 1980, during a period of severe mental illness, he tragically killed his wife and subsequently withdrew from academic life. Despite his controversial personal life, his theoretical contributions continue to influence philosophy, sociology, and political science. Althusser passed away in 1990, leaving behind a complex intellectual legacy.

Gustavo Gutiérrez is a Dominican priest and theologian credited with founding liberation theology in the 1960s. He emphasized the church's role in addressing poverty and injustice, blending Catholic doctrine with social analysis. Gutiérrez's seminal work, A Theology of Liberation, challenged traditional views and sparked global debate. He taught theology at the University of Notre Dame and other institutions, mentoring scholars worldwide. His ideas influenced social movements across Latin America and reshaped discussions on faith and politics. Despite controversy, Gutiérrez's work endures as a call for solidarity with marginalized communities and ethical engagement.