An influential medieval theologian whose apophatic theology is used by de Mello to underscore the concept of God's fundamental unknowability and the limitations of language.

The founder of Summerhill School, whose educational philosophy of freedom and emotional safety supports de Mello's thesis of natural goodness and ethical behavior arising without external coercion.

An Indian philosopher who rejected organized religion and championed "choiceless awareness." His teachings affirm de Mello's emphasis on freedom from psychological authority.

A British writer whose memoir, A Grief Observed, is cited by de Mello as an example of confronting spiritual questions unmediated by dogma after personal loss.

A French existentialist philosopher whose line "Hell is other people" is reinterpreted by de Mello to express the psychological dependency on external validation.

A Spanish mystic and nun whose contemplative practice of disidentification echoes de Mello's method of observing thoughts and emotions with detachment.

A German theologian and mystic noted for teachings on releasing attachments and observing reality, which support de Mello's ideas on spiritual awakening.