Robert Putnam is an American political scientist and professor known for his research on social capital and civic engagement. He gained prominence with his book, Bowling Alone, published in 2000, which discusses the decline of social connections in the United States and its impact on community life and democracy. Putnam's work emphasizes the importance of social networks and trust in fostering cooperation and improving societal well-being. He has also studied the effects of education, economic inequality, and political participation on social cohesion, contributing significantly to the fields of sociology and political science.