Joseph Raz is a prominent legal and moral philosopher known for his contributions to the fields of legal theory and political philosophy. Born in 1939 in Jerusalem, he has held academic positions at various prestigious institutions, including Oxford University and Columbia University. Raz is particularly recognized for his work on the nature of law, authority, and the relationship between law and morality. His influential theories include the concept of practical reasoning and the idea of normative authority, which explores how laws can guide human behavior. Raz's writings have significantly shaped contemporary discussions in legal philosophy, making him a key figure in understanding the complexities of law and ethics.