James Lovelock is a British scientist, environmentalist, and author, best known for proposing the Gaia theory. This theory suggests that the Earth functions as a self-regulating system, where living organisms interact with their inorganic surroundings to maintain conditions suitable for life. Lovelock's work has significantly influenced environmental science and our understanding of ecological balance. Born on July 26, 1919, Lovelock has had a diverse career, including work as a researcher for NASA. He developed the electron capture detector, which helped detect pollutants in the atmosphere. Throughout his life, Lovelock has been an advocate for addressing climate change and promoting sustainable practices.