Bertrand Russell

Profession: Philosopher

Nationality:

Biography: One of the foremost philosophers of the 20th century, Russell revolted against the idea of British idealism and became a founding father of analytic philosophy. His interests expanded on many subjects and his work influenced mathematics, logic, set theory, linguistics, artificial intelligence, cognitive science, computer science and philosophy.

A prominent anti-war activist, Russell was imprisoned during World War I for his pacifism, though concluded that war against Nazi Germany was the 'lesser of two evils'. In 1950 he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.

Born: May 18, 1872
Birthplace: Trellech, England
Star Sign: Taurus

Died: February 2, 1970 (aged 97)