Joseph John Campbell (March 26, 1904 – October 30, 1987) was an American writer known for his work in comparative mythology and comparative religion. As a professor of literature at Sarah Lawrence College, Campbell's studies spanned various aspects of the human condition. His most renowned work, The Hero with a Thousand Faces (1949), presents his theory of the archetypal hero's journey shared by world mythologies, called the monomyth.

Since the release of The Hero with a Thousand Faces, Campbell's theories have been embraced by numerous modern writers and artists. His philosophy, encapsulated in the phrase "Follow your bliss," resonated widely, notably influencing Hollywood, where George Lucas credited Campbell's work as an inspiration for his Star Wars saga.

Despite his significant influence on folklore and popular culture, Campbell's approach has faced criticism from academic folklorists.