Dejan Simkovic

Dr. Dejan Simkovic is a Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at the School of Philosophy & Theology, University of Notre Dame Australia, Sydney Campus. He serves as the National MA Philosophy Coordinator and has been a core faculty member since 2009, progressing from Tutor to Senior Lecturer. His expertise lies in modern philosophy, metaethics, moral philosophy, epistemology, and critical thinking, with a strong focus on David Hume’s moral philosophy.

Education:

• PhD in Philosophy, University of Sydney (2015), thesis: 'Hume’s Account of Moral Distinctions (the role of reason and sentiment in moral evaluation)'
• Magisterium (equivalent to MPhil) in Moral Philosophy, University of Belgrade (2008)
• Graduate Philosopher (equivalent to BPhil/Masters), University of Belgrade (2002)

His research centers on the nature of moral judgment, moral epistemology, and moral phenomenology, particularly in early modern philosophy. He specializes in Hume’s moral psychology, the is-ought problem, moral distinctions, and the interplay between reason and sentiment. His work bridges historical analysis with contemporary metaethical debates, offering nuanced interpretations of Humean sentimentalism and its implications for moral rationalism and epistemic virtue.

The 15 most recent publications reflect a sustained engagement with Hume’s ethical theory, especially in Treatise 3.1.1, moral distinctions, and the principle of humanity. They span journals like Hume Studies and The Philosophical Forum, and include edited volumes and conference proceedings. Keywords across these works include moral psychology, metaethics, epistemology, and history of philosophy, with subfields such as moral phenomenology, sentimentalism, and the is-ought problem.

Scientific Awards and Recognition:

• The Hume Society's Young Hume Scholar Award (2014 and 2011)
• University of Notre Dame Australia Vice Chancellor's Award for Teaching Excellence (2013)
• Research Incentive Scheme (2014)
• Australian Postgraduate Award (2009–2012)
• Travel Bursary from University of Otago (2013)
• Postgraduate Research Support Scheme, University of Sydney (2012)

Dr. Simkovic has supervised students at the postgraduate level and is actively involved in research grants and coordination, including the internationally funded project 'Humans and Society in Times of Crisis' by the University of Belgrade. He serves as a referee for Hume Studies, The Southern Journal of Philosophy, and Topoi. His professional service includes membership in the Hume Society, Australasian Association of Philosophy, and the British Society for the History of Philosophy. He also contributes to community outreach through the Philosophy in Schools Association of NSW, participating in essay competitions and Philosothons.

He is a member of the Scientific Committee for philosophy conferences and has delivered master classes and invited talks at institutions such as Durham University, the University of Edinburgh, and Princeton Theological Seminary. His academic leadership includes coordinating the National MA in Philosophy program across the university’s campuses.