Herbert Spencer (April 27, 1820 – December 8, 1903) was an influential British philosopher, biologist, and sociologist. Born in Derby, England, he was a prominent figure in the development of social Darwinism and a key proponent of scientific empiricism. Spencer's work laid important groundwork in the fields of education, ethics, and philosophy, emphasizing the importance of individual development and the application of scientific principles to societal progress.