Noam Chomsky is a renowned American linguist, philosopher, cognitive scientist, and political activist. Born in 1928 in Philadelphia, he gained worldwide recognition for his groundbreaking work in linguistics, specifically his theory of universal grammar. Chomsky has authored over 100 books on a wide range of topics including linguistics, politics, and media. He is a leading critic of US foreign policy and corporate influence, advocating for social justice and human rights. Chomsky continues to be a prolific writer and influential figure in academic and political circles.