Alain de Botton is a Swiss-British philosopher, author, and television presenter, born on December 20, 1969. He is best known for his works that explore the intersection of philosophy and everyday life, making complex ideas accessible to a general audience. His books, such as The Consolations of Philosophy and The Art of Travel, often blend personal anecdotes with philosophical insights. In addition to writing, de Botton founded the School of Life in 2008, an organization dedicated to promoting emotional intelligence and practical philosophy. He has also produced several television programs and lectures, furthering his mission to help people navigate modern life through philosophical understanding.