October 28

Born in Rotterdam in 1466, Erasmus became one of the leading scholars of the Northern Renaissance. He advocated for religious tolerance, critical scholarship of the Bible, and educational reform. His works, including "In Praise of Folly", satirized the abuses of the Church and called for moral return. Erasmus's edition of the Greek New Testament laid foundations for biblical studies and Protestant reform. He maintained a moderate position, seeking unity rather than schism between Catholics and reformers. Dying in 1536, Erasmus shaped humanist thought and influenced generations of thinkers.

Jean-Marie Guyau published influential texts such as 'The Origin of Morality' and 'The Moral Idea in Modern Society.' He explored the foundations of ethical sentiment and the role of social instincts. Guyau also wrote poetry that reflected his philosophical insights. Though he died young at 33, his ideas influenced later thinkers like Nietzsche and Durkheim. He lectured and taught at the Sorbonne, contributing to French intellectual life.

Born in 1929, Virginia Held earned her doctorate in philosophy and began teaching at the City University of New York. Her groundbreaking anthology 'The Ethics of Care' established a new framework in moral philosophy focused on relationships and responsibilities. Held's research spans feminist ethics, political theory, and the critique of power structures within traditional moral theories. She has authored numerous books and articles, influencing debates on global justice, human rights, and public policy. As an educator, she has mentored generations of philosophers and championed the inclusion of care ethics in academic curricula. Held's work continues to inspire scholars and practitioners seeking to integrate empathy and fairness in ethical thought.

Volker Zotz is an Austrian philosopher, scholar, and author known for his work on Buddhism and comparative religion. He has published extensive research on Eastern thought, including the influence of Buddhism in European philosophy. Zotz has held academic positions at universities and contributed to public understanding through lectures and books such as Buddhism: A Short Introduction. His interdisciplinary approach bridges philosophy, anthropology, and religious studies. Zotz continues to explore cultural and philosophical intersections in his writing.