Controversial French sociologist and philosopher, Jean Baudrillard, known for his fierce criticism of consumerism and excess, has died in Paris after a long illness at the age of 77.
He first attracted worldwide attention in 1991 with his book The Gulf War Did Not Take Place. He argued that neither side could claim victory, and the conflict had changed little on the ground in Iraq.
He caused even bigger controversy with his views on the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States. He wrote the attacks were an expression of triumphant globalization battling against itself.
Born in Rheims west of Paris in 1929, Baudrillard taught high school students the German language. After receiving a doctorate in sociology, he taught at the University of Paris.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.