Vik I Myrdal is a prominent Norwegian sociologist and economist, known for his contributions to the fields of social theory and economic development. Born on March 19, 1920, he played a significant role in shaping modern social science in Norway and beyond. Myrdal's work often focused on the interplay between economic and social factors, emphasizing the importance of understanding societal contexts in economic analysis. He is perhaps best known for his influential book, An American Dilemma, published in 1944, which examined the issues of race and inequality in the United States. Myrdal's research earned him the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1974, recognizing his impact on economic thought and policy.