James Q. Wilson was an influential American political scientist and professor, known for his work in the fields of public policy and criminology. He was born on May 27, 1931, and passed away on March 2, 2012. Wilson is best known for his theories on the nature of crime and the role of social institutions, particularly through his book, Crime and Human Nature. Wilson also contributed significantly to the study of public administration and political theory. He served as a professor at several prestigious universities, including Harvard University and UCLA. His ideas have shaped discussions on the relationship between society and crime, emphasizing the importance of moral values and community in maintaining social order.