Samuel Johnson LL.D. (September 18 [O.S. September 7] 1709 – 13 December 1784), often referred to simply as Dr Johnson, was one of England's greatest literary figures: a poet, essayist, biograph... (more)

Samuel Johnson LL.D. (September 18 [O.S. September 7] 1709 – 13 December 1784), often referred to simply as Dr Johnson, was one of England's greatest literary figures: a poet, essayist, biographer, lexicographer and often considered the finest critic of English literature. He was also a great wit and prose stylist whose bons mots are still frequently quoted in print today.

Among students of philosophy, Dr Johnson is perhaps best known for his "refutation" of Bishop Berkeley's idealism. During a conversation with his biographer, Johnson became infuriated at the suggestion that Berkeley's idealism could not be refuted. In his anger, Johnson powerfully kicked a nearby stone and proclaimed of Berkeley's theory, "I refute it thus!".

Source: Wikipedia