January 06

Samuel Alexander was born in Australia in 1859 and later studied at Oxford, becoming a prominent figure in British idealism. He developed a metaphysical system that emphasized space, time, and the process of emergence, most notably in his work Space, Time, and Deity. His theories offered a dynamic view of the universe, bridging traditional philosophy and contemporary science. As Professor of Philosophy at the University of Manchester, he inspired students through his lectures and writings. Alexander was the first Australian-born fellow of the British Academy, recognized for his scholarly achievements. His emphasis on the interrelation of mind and world influenced later thinkers in metaphysics and the philosophy of mind. He died in 1938, leaving a lasting legacy in philosophical thought.

Kahlil Gibran was born in the town of Bsharri in Ottoman Lebanon in 1883. He emigrated with his mother and siblings to the United States in 1895 and began his career as a writer and artist in Boston. Gibran's most famous work, 'The Prophet' (1923), has sold millions of copies and been translated into dozens of languages. In addition to his poetic writings, he created hundreds of paintings and drawings, often reflecting spiritual and mystical themes. His essays on love, freedom, and the human condition have inspired readers around the world. Gibran's blend of Eastern and Western thought continues to influence literature, art, and philosophy. He died in New York City in 1931, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most beloved literary figures of the 20th century.

Jacques Ellul was born in Bordeaux, France, in 1912 and studied law before pursuing theology and sociology. He taught at the University of Bordeaux and the Institute of Political Science in Paris. Ellul's seminal work, 'The Technological Society' (1954), examines the pervasive effects of technology on human freedom and social structures. He also wrote extensively on propaganda, Christian ethics, and the relationship between faith and modernity. Ellul was a member of the French Anarchist Federation and advocated for individual liberty and social justice. His interdisciplinary analysis influenced scholars in philosophy, political science, and media studies. He continued writing and lecturing until his death in 1994, leaving a profound intellectual legacy.

Alan Watts introduced Zen Buddhism and Taoism to Western audiences during the mid-20th century. He authored over 25 books, including the best-selling 'The Way of Zen' and 'The Book: On the Taboo Against Knowing Who You Are'. Watts was a charismatic speaker, delivering lectures and radio broadcasts that blended humor with deep philosophical insights. He co-founded the American Academy of Asian Studies in San Francisco in 1951. His accessible interpretations of complex Eastern thought influenced generations of spiritual seekers. Watts’s legacy endures through his recordings, writings, and the Alan Watts Electronic University.