Giorgio Agamben is an Italian philosopher known for his work in political philosophy, ethics, and aesthetics. Born in 1942, he gained prominence for his analysis of the concepts of state of exception and biopolitics, which explore how governments exercise power over individuals. His influential books include Homo Sacer and The Coming Community. Agamben's ideas often draw on historical and philosophical sources, including Michel Foucault and Walter Benjamin. He examines how modern societies manage life and death, particularly in contexts of crisis. His work has significantly impacted contemporary debates in philosophy, law, and political theory.