John Ralston Saul

John Ralston Saul is an excellent writer, and an inspiring individual.

His forte is the written word, which he expresses in one of two ways:

1. Non-fiction: Saul is an essayist who has written at length about social issues and how they might be resolved. His philosophy is humanist, so his work often explores themes of the individual versus the elite echelons of society. He urges the reader to question social norms for the betterment of all people.
   
2. Fiction: I haven't read any of his novels, but they're supposed to be pretty good.
   

Saul has taught the world that it is cool to be a thinker. His status as one of Canada's top pop-philosophers has garnered him all of the things that people might want out of life: fame, political influence, riches, and an attractive and successful spouse. As such, he is a well-respected member of the Canadian intelligentsia, and an inspiration to future generations to pursue philosophy.