John Ralston Saul, Canadian philosopher and author
John Ralston Saul (born June 19, 1947) is a Canadian writer, political philosopher, and public intellectual. Saul is most widely known for his writings on the nature of individualism, citizenship and the public good; the failures of manager-led societies; the confusion between leadership and managerialism; military strategy, in particular irregular warfare; the role of freedom of speech and culture; and critiques of the prevailing economic paradigm. He is a champion of freedom of expression and was the International President of PEN International, an association of writers. Saul is the co-founder and co-chair of the Institute for Canadian Citizenship, a national charity promoting the inclusion of new citizens. He is also the co-founder and co-chair of 6 Degrees, the global forum for inclusion. Saul is also the husband to the former governor general Adrienne Clarkson, making him the Viceregal consort of Canada during most of her service (1999–2005).
His work is known for being thought-provoking and ahead of its time, leading him to be called a "prophet" by Time and to be included in Utne Reader's list of the world's leading thinkers and visionaries. His works have been translated into 25 languages in 36 countries.
1947Jun, 19
John Ralston Saul
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Events on 1947
- 10Feb
Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia
Italy cedes most of Venezia Giulia to Yugoslavia. - 5Jun
George Marshall
Marshall Plan: In a speech at Harvard University, the United States Secretary of State George Marshall calls for economic aid to war-torn Europe. - 15Aug
Indian independence movement
India gains Independence from British rule after near 190 years of Crown rule and joins the Commonwealth of Nations. - 30Sep
New York Yankees
The World Series, featuring the New York Yankees and the Brooklyn Dodgers, is televised for the first time. - 5Oct
Harry S. Truman
The first televised White House address is given by U.S. President Harry S. Truman.