John Searle
Philosopher and creator of speech act theory
An influential philosopher and academic, this individual significantly contributed to the philosophy of language and the philosophy of mind. A central figure in analytic philosophy, he developed the theory of speech acts, which examines how language is used in communication. His works, including 'Speech Acts' and 'The Rediscovery of the Mind', interrogate concepts such as meaning, reference, and social reality. Additionally, he proposed the Chinese Room argument, which challenges computational theories of the mind. Engaged in debates on consciousness and artificial intelligence, he offered substantial critiques of reductionist views in cognitive science.
Developed speech act theory
Proposed the Chinese Room argument
Authored 'The Rediscovery of the Mind'
Other People Born on July 31st
Linus Ullmark
Ice Hockey Goaltender, Vezina Trophy Winner
Born
July 31st, 1993 32 years ago
A professional ice hockey goaltender, recognized for playing in the NHL, primarily with the Boston Bruins. Ullmark began his career in Sweden before transitioning to North America, where he played for teams like the Buffalo Sabres. In the 2022-2023 season, Ullmark achieved notable success, contributing significantly to his team's performance. His skills in the net earned him accolades, culminating in winning the Vezina Trophy, awarded to the league's top goaltender.
Continue ReadingRéka Luca Jani
Hungarian tennis player and competitor
Born
July 31st, 1991 34 years ago
Competed on the professional tennis circuit primarily in singles and doubles events. Achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 70 in August 2015. Participated in major tournaments such as the Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon, and US Open. Excelled in doubles, with a highest ranking of World No. 82. Represented Hungary in international competitions including the Fed Cup.
Continue ReadingMichael Bradley
Soccer player for USA national team
Born
July 31st, 1987 38 years ago
Played professional soccer primarily as a midfielder. Began career in Major League Soccer with the MetroStars before moving to Europe, where stints included clubs like Heerenveen, Aston Villa, and Roma. Returned to MLS to play for Toronto FC, winning multiple league titles. Served as a key player for the USA national team, participating in the FIFA World Cup tournaments in 2010, 2014, and 2018. Key figure in the national team's midfield for a decade.
Continue ReadingKyle Larson
Race car driver, 2021 NASCAR champion
Born
July 31st, 1992 33 years ago
This race car driver competed in NASCAR and established a reputation in dirt racing. Achieved significant success in the NASCAR Cup Series, winning the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series Championship. Recorded multiple wins in various prestigious NASCAR events. Also participated in open-wheel racing, demonstrating versatility and skill in different racing disciplines.
Continue ReadingDaniel Ciofani
Italian footballer with Frosinone
Born
July 31st, 1985 40 years ago
Played professional football primarily as a forward, with notable contributions to the Italian football league. Achieved success with Frosinone Calcio, helping the team secure promotion to Serie A during the 2014-2015 season. Participated in multiple seasons of Serie B and exhibited consistent scoring ability. Also contributed to the team's defensive play, demonstrating versatility on the field.
Continue ReadingRobert C. Merton
Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 31st, 1944 81 years ago
Significant contributions to financial economics. Developed the Black-Scholes model for option pricing alongside Fischer Black and Myron Scholes, earning a Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1997. Contributed to the development of risk management techniques and dynamic asset allocation strategies. Held academic positions at renowned institutions, including Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University. Published numerous influential papers and books in finance, shaping the understanding of derivative instruments and market behavior.
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