Immanuel Kant was an influential German philosopher in the 18th century, known for his work in epistemology and ethics. His most famous work, Critique of Pure Reason, explores the relationship between human experience and knowledge, laying the groundwork for modern philosophy. Kant also developed the concept of the categorical imperative, a fundamental principle in his moral philosophy that emphasizes the importance of duty and universal moral laws. His ideas have had a profound impact on various fields, including ethics, metaphysics, and political theory, shaping the way we think about morality and human rights.