Avram Noam Chomsky, born December 7, 1928, is an American linguist, philosopher, cognitive scientist, and political activist. Often called "the father of modern linguistics", he is known for his groundbreaking work in linguistics, particularly his theory of universal grammar and transformational grammar. These theories revolutionized the study of language by positing that humans possess an innate capacity for language. He is also a major figure in analytic philosophy and one of the founders of the field of cognitive science.
Chomsky is also known for his political activism and social criticism, particularly his critiques of U.S. foreign policy, contemporary capitalism, and corporate influence on political institutions and the media. He identifies as a libertarian socialist and has been a vocal critic of media and government actions since the 1960s. After a long career at MIT, Chomsky is now a Laureate Professor in Linguistics and Professor in Environment and Social Justice at the University of Arizona. In June 2024, it was revealed that Chomsky was recovering from a stroke he had suffered the previous year and was living in Brazil with his wife. Despite his health challenges, a pre-stroke video interview conducted at the University of Arizona revealed Chomsky's insightful perspectives on critical issues such as the threat of nuclear war and the climate crisis.
