Joseph Weizenbaum was a German-American computer scientist, best known for creating the early natural language processing program called ELIZA in the 1960s. This program simulated conversation by using pattern matching and substitution, allowing users to interact with it as if it were a human therapist. Weizenbaum's work raised important questions about the limits of artificial intelligence and the ethical implications of machines simulating human behavior. In addition to his programming achievements, Weizenbaum was a vocal critic of the growing reliance on computers in society. He believed that technology should serve humanity and not replace human judgment. His insights contributed to discussions on the relationship between humans and machines, influencing fields like AI ethics and human-computer interaction.