Richard Posner is an influential American jurist and legal scholar, known for his work in the field of law and economics. Born on January 11, 1939, he served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit from 1981 until his retirement in 2017. Posner has authored numerous books and articles, contributing significantly to legal theory and practice. In addition to his judicial career, Posner is a professor at the University of Chicago Law School, where he has taught for many years. He is recognized for his pragmatic approach to law, emphasizing the importance of economic analysis in legal decision-making. His ideas have shaped modern legal thought and influenced various areas of law, including antitrust law and intellectual property.