Richard Thaler is an American economist known for his work in behavioral economics. Born on September 12, 1945, in East Orange, New Jersey, he is a professor at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Thaler's research focuses on the psychology of economic decision-making and how individuals deviate from traditional economic models due to irrational behaviors. He received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 2017 for his contributions to the field. Thaler is also an author, with books like "Nudge" co-written with Cass Sunstein, making a significant impact on public policy and behavioral science.