One of the reasons why I love teaching courses in philosophy, and loved taking them as a student, is that philosophy requires dialogue. This is why when I teach I prioritize creating a space in which everyone feels comfortable sharing, exploring, and debating ideas. Before coming to UAB I taught philosophy classes at the University of Virginia, Virginia Military Institute, and Northern Illinois University. At each of these schools I enjoyed bringing together the perspectives of students from diverse backgrounds, and teaching them how to apply philosophy to a wide variety of career paths.
Two of the most valuable things that philosophy can contribute to a student’s life, no matter their major, are the skills of critical thinking and clear communication. My favorite way to help students develop these skills is to work with them on essays. By carefully revising their arguments in response to feedback over the course of a semester, students learn to identify and express the reasons behind their opinions. Not surprisingly, my research is also focused on reasoning and communication. In particular, I ask how expressive language like moral judgments, racial slurs, and aesthetic evaluations reveal attitudes and influence behavior.
I spent my childhood in equal parts in Northern California, Nashville, and Virginia Beach. This transient upbringing has instilled in me a passion for experiencing new places. In our spare time my wife Anne and I enjoy playing board games, hiking, and exploring Birmingham’s restaurants.
