Hans Rosling

Born in 1948 in Uppsala, Sweden, Hans Rosling emerged as a pivotal figure in the realm of global health and data visualization. With a career that seamlessly intertwined medicine and statistics, Rosling's insightful perspectives were shaped during his tenure as a physician in Mozambique, where he confronted firsthand the stark realities of health disparities. As a Professor of International Health at the esteemed Karolinska Institute, he channeled his profound understanding of epidemiology into a broader discourse, advocating for a data-driven approach to development issues. His visionary leadership materialized through the co-founding of the Gapminder Foundation, which he chaired to promote the use of visual data to debunk misconceptions about global development. Rosling's literary contribution, particularly the international bestseller "Factfulness: Ten Reasons We're Wrong About the World – and Why Things Are Better Than You Think," co-authored with his son Ola Rosling and daughter-in-law Anna Rosling Rönnlund, stands as a seminal work in the field of statistical literacy. This acclaimed book challenges pervasive myths about global progress, urging readers to adopt a fact-based worldview. Through compelling narratives and robust data analysis, it has garnered critical acclaim for its ability to transform complex statistical information into accessible and engaging insights, reinforcing Rosling's reputation as a leading voice in demystifying global health and development statistics. With a dynamic and engaging style, Rosling's work is characterized by a rigorous yet optimistic exploration of global trends. His writing seamlessly blends analytical precision with storytelling prowess, making complex data relatable and comprehensible. By elucidating the often-overlooked progress in global health and development, Rosling has made an indelible contribution to the way we perceive and utilize data. His legacy endures through his compelling advocacy for a fact-based understanding of the world, inspiring a generation to look beyond sensationalist narratives and appreciate the incremental advancements shaping our future.