Pierre-Joseph Proudhon (1809-1865), a French philosopher, economist, and politician, is best known for his influential work, "What is Property?" This treatise challenged conventional notions of ownership and advocated for a more equitable distribution of wealth. Proudhon's ideas on property rights and social justice sparked intense debates and laid the groundwork for modern anarchist and socialist movements.

Despite being labeled as an anarchist, Proudhon's beliefs were more nuanced, advocating for a decentralized society based on mutualism and voluntary cooperation rather than chaos and disorder.

Proudhon's radical ideas and passionate advocacy for social reform continue to influence discussions on economic inequality and the role of government in society.