Jean Baudrillard was a French sociologist, philosopher, and cultural critic, known for his work on postmodernism and media theory. He gained prominence in the late 20th century for his ideas about the nature of reality and simulation, particularly in his influential book, Simulacra and Simulation. Baudrillard argued that in contemporary society, representations of reality often replace the reality itself, leading to a world dominated by images and signs. His theories explored the impact of consumer culture and technology on human experience. Baudrillard believed that modern society is characterized by a hyperreality, where the distinction between the real and the simulated becomes blurred. His work has influenced various fields, including sociology, philosophy, and media studies.