William James, popularly recognized as the "Father of American Psychology," began his career as a physician before becoming one of the most influential philosophers and psychologists in the United States. He was a key figure in the development of the philosophical school known as pragmatism and is also regarded as one of the founders of functional psychology. In addition to his groundbreaking theories, James explored diverse areas, including religion, morality, metaphysics, human freedom, and social philosophy. His provocative ideas, combined with his distinctive and engaging writing style, amplified the impact of his work. His writings covered a wide range of topics, including metaphysics, religion, education, and psychology, among others. James's ideas influenced many great intellectuals, including Edmund Husserl, Bertrand Russell, and Richard Rorty. Even prominent figures like U.S. President Jimmy Carter acknowledged the significance of his philosophical contributions.