Talcott Parsons

Sociologist and author of The Structure of Social Action

Talcott Parsons - Sociologist and author of The Structure of Social Action
Born

December 13th, 1902
122 years ago

Died

1979
46 years ago — 77 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

United States

Links & References

Contributed significantly to the field of sociology, particularly through the development of social action theory. Emphasized the importance of understanding social structures and their functions. Advocated for a systems perspective to analyze the relationship between society and individual behavior. Parsons' work influenced the study of modern sociology and shaped theoretical frameworks used in subsequent research.

Authored The Structure of Social Action

Developed the paradigm of social systems

Influenced American sociology in the 20th century

Other People Born on December 13th

Mary Todd Lincoln

16th First Lady of the United States
Born
December 13th, 1818 206 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1882 142 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1818, this individual became the First Lady during her husband's presidency. She played a significant role in the social and political life of the White House, balancing the responsibilities of her role with personal challenges. Throughout her time in the public eye, she dealt with immense loss and mental health struggles while maintaining a commitment to her husband's legacy. Following her husband's assassination, she faced further difficulties and ultimately lived a life of relative seclusion until her death in 1882.

Continue Reading

Aga Khan IV

49th Imam of the Nizari Isma'ili community
Born
December 13th, 1936 88 years ago
Died
February 4th, 2025 0 years ago — 88 years old

Assumed leadership as the 49th Imam of the Nizari Isma'ili community in 1957. Focused on the development and education of the Isma'ili community worldwide. Established institutions such as the Aga Khan Development Network to improve health, education, and infrastructure in various countries. Engaged in philanthropic efforts across multiple sectors, including health care, education, and rural development. Advocated for pluralism and the importance of dialogue within various cultures and faiths.

Continue Reading

Simona Waltert

Swiss tennis player and competitor
Born
December 13th, 2000 24 years ago

Competed professionally in tennis, achieving notable success in various international tournaments. Established a presence on the WTA Tour, making strides in singles and doubles events. Gained recognition for performances in junior championships, which laid the groundwork for a successful transition to the professional level. Demonstrated remarkable skill and determination throughout career developments.

Continue Reading

Ferguson Jenkins

Baseball Player and Hall of Famer
Born
December 13th, 1942 82 years ago

A professional baseball player, achieved significant success as a pitcher. Played in Major League Baseball from 1965 to 1983, primarily with the Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Phillies, and Texas Rangers. Garnered three All-Star selections and won the Cy Young Award in 1971. Noted for consistent performance and ability to strike out batters, accumulating over 3,000 strikeouts throughout the career. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991, recognizing contributions to the sport.

Continue Reading

George Pólya

Mathematician known for problem solving
Born
December 13th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 98 years old

A mathematician and educator, this individual contributed significantly to mathematical analysis, number theory, and applied mathematics. Developed the Pólya Enumeration Theorem and made influential strides in problem-solving methods. Authored several important works, including 'How to Solve It', which provides strategies for solving mathematical problems. Held positions at several educational institutions, including Stanford University, where contributions to mathematics education and teaching methods were notable.

Continue Reading

Alvin C. York

American soldier, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
December 13th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1964 60 years ago — 76 years old

Served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War I. Achieved fame for leading an assault against German machine gun nests in the Argonne Forest, resulting in significant enemy casualties. The successful operation occurred on October 8, 1918, during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. His bravery and leadership earned the Medal of Honor, awarded by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919. Post-war, engaged in various humanitarian efforts, including the establishment of a school in Pall Mall, Tennessee.

Continue Reading