William James, a prominent figure in American philosophy and psychology, was born on January 11, 1842, in New York City. He was the eldest son of a prominent theologian, Henry James Sr., and grew up in a highly intellectual environment. His early life was marked by extensive travel and exposure to various cultures, significantly influencing his worldview. James attended Harvard University, where he studied a range of subjects, including philosophy, physiology, and psychology, ultimately earning his medical degree in 1869.

James's literary career began in earnest with the publication of "The Principles of Psychology" in 1890, a groundbreaking work that established him as a leading figure in the field. This book introduced concepts such as the stream of consciousness and the role of emotions in human thought, laying the groundwork for modern psychological theory. His other notable works include "The Varieties of Religious Experience," which explored the nature of religion and spiritual experiences, and "Pragmatism," where he articulated his philosophical stance that the truth of ideas is measured by their practical consequences.

In his personal life, William James married Alice Howe Gibbens in 1878, and they had five children. He struggled with health issues throughout his life, including bouts of depression, which shaped his understanding of human experience and contributed to his philosophical inquiries. James's contributions to psychology and philosophy were not only influential during his lifetime but also continue to resonate in contemporary thought. He passed away on August 26, 1910, in Chocorua, New Hampshire, leaving behind a legacy as one of the foremost minds in American intellectual history.