George Berkeley, born on March 12, 1685, in Kilkenny, Ireland, was a prominent philosopher and bishop, best known for his contributions to the field of metaphysics and epistemology. He is often associated with the philosophy of idealism, a theory asserting that reality is fundamentally mental and immaterial. Berkeley passed away on January 14, 1753, in Oxon, England, leaving behind a legacy that would influence both contemporary and later philosophical thought.

Berkeley's early life was shaped by his education at the Kilkenny College and later at Trinity College, Dublin, where he earned a degree in 1707. His academic pursuits ignited a passion for philosophy, and he began developing his ideas on perception and existence. His formative years were marked by a keen interest in the works of Descartes and Locke, which would later serve as a springboard for his own philosophical inquiries.

Berkeley's literary career flourished with the publication of several notable works, most famously "A Treatise Concerning the Principles of Human Knowledge" in 1710 and "Three Dialogues between Hylas and Philonous" in 1713. In these texts, he challenged the materialist views of his contemporaries, positing that objects only exist as they are perceived. His ideas sparked significant debate and inquiry, making him a central figure in early modern philosophy.

In addition to his intellectual pursuits, Berkeley had a rich personal life. He married Anne Forster in 1713, and together they had three children. His commitment to his faith led him to become the Bishop of Cloyne in 1734, where he actively promoted education and social welfare. Despite his contributions to philosophy and religion, Berkeley's ideals often went unrecognized during his lifetime, but today, he is celebrated as a foundational figure in the study of idealism and the philosophy of perception.