Robert M. Pirsig

Robert M. Pirsig was an American philosopher and writer, born in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1928. He is best known for his novel, "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry into Values," which was published in 1974 and has since sold millions of copies worldwide. Pirsig's writing combines his interests in philosophy and motorcycle maintenance, offering a unique perspective on the relationship between technology and culture.

Before becoming a successful author, Pirsig received degrees in chemistry, philosophy, and journalism. He also studied Oriental philosophy at Benares Hindu University in India. These academic pursuits reflect Pirsig's lifelong interest in exploring different ways of understanding the world.

In addition to "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance," Pirsig also wrote "Lila: An Inquiry into Morals," which was published in 1991. Both of his books explore the concept of "Quality," which Pirsig defines as a fundamental aspect of reality that is often overlooked in Western philosophy. Through his writing, Pirsig seeks to challenge traditional ways of thinking and encourage readers to consider new perspectives.

Despite the success of his books, Pirsig was known to be a private person who avoided the limelight. He passed away in 2017, leaving behind a legacy of thought-provoking work that continues to inspire readers around the world. Pirsig's contributions to American literature and philosophy have cemented his place as a significant cultural figure of the 20th century.