November 19

John Wilkins (1614–1672) served as Bishop of Chester and was a prominent figure in the intellectual revolution of 17th-century England. A natural philosopher, he promoted experimental science and collaborated with figures like Robert Boyle and Christopher Wren. In 1660, he co-founded the Royal Society, aiming to advance scientific research through empirical methods. Wilkins wrote influential works on cryptography, astronomy, and language, including 'An Essay towards a Real Character.' His vision of a universal language and interest in mechanical inventions reflected the era's spirit of innovation.

Born in 1866, Lev Shestov delved into the tensions between reason and faith, arguing that authentic belief transcends logical constraints. His major works, including The Philosophy of Tragic Existence, challenged established philosophical norms and inspired existential thinkers such as Kierkegaard and Nietzsche. Shestov emphasized personal experience and the irrational aspects of life in his writings. After moving to Paris in 1921, he continued teaching and writing, engaging with a circle of émigré intellectuals. His thought laid groundwork for later developments in existentialism and religious philosophy. Shestov died in 1938, leaving a legacy as a bold critic of systematic thought and a pioneer of philosophical inquiry.

Roy Bhaskar (1944–2014) was a British philosopher best known for establishing the philosophical framework of critical realism. He introduced his ideas in 'A Realist Theory of Science' and further developed them in works like 'The Possibility of Naturalism' and 'Dialectic: The Pulse of Freedom.' Bhaskar’s critical realism bridged the gap between positivism and interpretivism, influencing social theory, economics, and psychology. He held academic positions at the University of Sussex and other institutions, where he mentored generations of scholars. Bhaskar was also involved in political activism, advocating for social justice and environmental causes. His interdisciplinary contributions continue to shape contemporary debates in philosophy and the social sciences.