Dr. Thomas J. Stanley (1944-2015) was an influential American writer and business theorist, renowned for his extensive research on America's wealthy population. He began his study of the affluent in 1973 and authored several award-winning books, including the New York Times bestsellers 'The Millionaire Next Door' and 'The Millionaire Mind.' His works have collectively sold over 4 million copies, making significant contributions to the understanding of wealth accumulation and financial behavior among the affluent.

In addition to his writing, Dr. Stanley held a doctorate in business administration from the University of Georgia and served as a professor of marketing at various institutions, including Georgia State University and the University of Tennessee. He was also the chief advisor to Data Points, a company founded based on his research. His last book, 'The Next Millionaire Next Door,' was published posthumously in 2018, co-authored by Dr. Sarah Stanley Fallaw, further solidifying his legacy as a leading authority on wealth in America.