Christopher Eric Hitchens (April 13, 1949 – December 15, 2011) was a renowned British-American author, journalist, and literary critic. Known for his sharp wit and polemical writing, Hitchens became one of the most prominent public intellectuals of his time. He authored 18 books on various subjects including faith, religion, culture, politics, and literature.

Hitchens was born and educated in Britain, graduating in 1970 from the University of Oxford with a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics. He emigrated to the United States in the early 1980s, where he wrote for publications such as The Nation and Vanity Fair.

He gained prominence as a columnist and speaker, particularly as one of the "Four Horsemen of New Atheism" along with Richard Dawkins, Sam Harris, and Daniel Dennett. His epistemological razor, famously stating that "what can be asserted without evidence can also be dismissed without evidence," has left a lasting mark in philosophy and law.

Hitchens's political views evolved throughout his life. Initially, he described himself as a democratic socialist and was involved in various socialist organizations. Over time, his politics were seen as shifting to the right, though he rejected being labeled 'conservative'. He was critical of certain aspects of American foreign policy but supported the United States in various conflicts. He emphasized the significance of the American Revolution and Constitution in his political philosophy.

Hitchens was a staunch critic of religion, describing himself as an antitheist and advocating for free expression, scientific skepticism, and the separation of church and state. He argued that science and philosophy are superior to religion as ethical codes for human civilization. Among his notable works are critical biographies of figures such as Mother Teresa (The Missionary Position), Bill Clinton (No One Left to Lie To), and Henry Kissinger (The Trial of Henry Kissinger).

Christopher Hitchens passed away in December 2011 from complications related to esophageal cancer at the age of 62.