Jaron Lanier is an American computer scientist, author, and musician, known for his pioneering work in virtual reality. He was born on May 3, 1960, and has contributed significantly to the development of technology that allows users to interact with computer-generated environments. Lanier is also recognized for his critiques of social media and the impact of technology on society. In addition to his technical achievements, Lanier has written several influential books, including You Are Not a Gadget and Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now. He advocates for a more human-centered approach to technology, emphasizing the importance of individual creativity and privacy in the digital age.