Clay Shirky is an American writer, educator, and consultant known for his work on the social and economic effects of the internet. He has authored several influential books, including Here Comes Everybody and Cognitive Surplus, which explore how digital communication changes the way people collaborate and share information. Shirky's insights have made him a prominent figure in discussions about technology and society. In addition to his writing, Shirky has taught at institutions like New York University and has been involved in various projects that examine the impact of social media on public discourse. His work emphasizes the importance of understanding how technology shapes human behavior and community engagement.