The love of wisdom

Famous For: Platonic idealism & the theory of forms
Athenian native Plato, and his role in western philosophy can be traced back to when he was student of Socrates. He also excelled in mathematics, logic, ethics, rhetoric, and religion. He founded the Academy in Athens.

John Locke (1632-1704) Famous For: theory of mind & Father of Classical Liberalism The effect of English philosopher John Locke has on the world reverberates to this day. His part on the idea of the social contract theory was one he shared with Sir Francis Bacon. The likes of Rousseau, Voltaire, even American revolutionaries have been influenced by his writings. He also offered the theory of mind wherein he states that knowledge is something you are not born with, but learn and experience.	Simone de Beauvoir (1908-1986) Famous For: existential feminism & ethics of ambiguity Simone de Beauvoir is viewed as a philosopher, but she saw herself more as a political activist, intellectual, and a writer. She authored numerous books which include The Second Sex, The Mandarins, and She Came to Stay.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) Famous For: General Will and the moral simplicity of humanity The political philosophy of Rousseau became the basis of the French Revolution. His ideas not only influenced nations, his work is reflected in the modern thinking in regards to education, political, and sociological matters. Two of his books, Discourse on the Origin of Inequality and On the Social Contract have had its effect on social and political thinking.	Adam Smith (1723-1790) Famous For: father of modern economics Best remembered for his writing of An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations and The Theory of Moral Sentiments, Scottish philosopher Adam Smith was a pioneer in the field of political economy. His ideas in the areas of moral philosophy and economics have been studied throughout the years, and still is.
Aristotle (384–322 BC)