photo credit: Dirk Lenz
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ResearchMuch of my research focuses on what I call the Partiality Question: To what extent (if any) are we justified in prioritizing our own good over the equal good of others? When I first began thinking about this question I was drawn to Sidgwick's view that there are no rational grounds for resolving conflicts between self-interest and the greater good. However, further research on Sidgwick as well as contemporary ethics and metaethics led me to the conclusion that one's own good is not a source of reasons with independent weight over and above the weight they would have in an impartial calculus. Current projects center on defending this view (sometimes referred to as Rational Impartialism) and exploring the possible implications of various metanormitive theories for first-order ethical questions. I am also continuing to investigate and interpret Sidgwick's arguments and ideas about these issues.
A second line of research centers on Kantian practical philosophy. I am especially interested in Kant's value theory and moral psychology. I have published articles on the Kantian value of sympathy as well as Kant's moral justification for the hiddenness of God. I am currently developing papers on the relative value of virtue and holiness for Kant, as well as interpretive puzzles concerning the claim that one's own happiness is a necessary end. Among other works in progress are papers on fear, moral worth, and Book 2 of Plato's Republic. A selection of published papers and poster presentations are available by clicking the buttons below. |
Conference and Event Photos
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