Max Stirner
Max Stirner was a 19th-century German philosopher best known for his work, The Ego and Its Own. He is often associated with individualism and anarchism, emphasizing the importance of the self over societal norms and institutions. Stirner argued that individuals should prioritize their own interests and desires, rejecting any form of authority that limits personal freedom.
Stirner's ideas challenged traditional philosophy and political thought, influencing later thinkers such as Friedrich Nietzsche and various existentialist movements. His concept of the "unique one" highlights the significance of personal identity and autonomy, making him a pivotal figure in discussions about selfhood and liberty.