John Gray (Canadian author)

John Gray (born 1948) is a Canadian political philosopher, author, and academic. He is known for his writings on political thought, contemporary culture, and the history of ideas, often taking a critical stance towards liberalism, utopianism, and scientism.

Gray received his education at the University of Exeter and the University of Oxford. He held academic positions at several universities, including Oxford, Harvard, Yale, and the London School of Economics. He is a frequent contributor to publications such as The Guardian, The New Statesman, and The Times Literary Supplement.

His philosophical positions are often described as being influenced by thinkers such as Isaiah Berlin and Michel Foucault. Gray's work often emphasizes the limitations of human reason, the persistence of moral and political conflict, and the dangers of seeking perfect societies. He is skeptical of progress narratives and argues that history is not teleological.

Notable works include:

• Liberalism (1979)
• False Dawn: The Delusions of Global Capitalism (1998)
• Straw Dogs: Thoughts on Humans and Other Animals (2002)
• Black Mass: Apocalyptic Religion and the Death of Utopia (2007)
• The Silence of Animals: On Progress and Other Modern Myths (2013)
• Seven Types of Atheism (2018)

Gray's writings have generated considerable debate and discussion within academic and intellectual circles. He is considered a significant voice in contemporary political thought, known for his challenging perspectives and provocative arguments.