Desiderius Erasmus was a Dutch philosopher and theologian born in 1466. He is best known for his works on humanism, which emphasized the importance of education and critical thinking. Erasmus advocated for a return to the original texts of the Bible and classical literature, promoting a more personal and direct relationship with faith. Erasmus's most famous work, "In Praise of Folly," critiques the corruption within the Church and society. He was a key figure in the Renaissance and influenced many thinkers, including Martin Luther. His ideas contributed to the development of modern thought and the Reformation.