Hao Hong

Hao Hong is an Associate Professor of Philosophy and CLAS-Honors Preceptor at the University of Maine, jointly appointed by the Philosophy Department and the Honors College. He holds a PhD in Philosophy from Indiana University (2018), with minors in History and Philosophy of Science, and prior degrees from Peking University. His primary research focuses on metaphysics, particularly metaphysical anti-realism, truthmaking, and comparative metaphysics across philosophical traditions. He actively engages with analytic philosophy, modern European philosophy, and classical Chinese philosophy like the Daodejing and Laozi.

Teaching responsibilities include core philosophy courses (e.g., Metaphysics, Classical Chinese Philosophy) and Honors College preceptorials. His experimental approach to philosophy challenges traditional boundaries, blending Daoist and punk influences in his methodologies. Recent research explores Xuanxue (魏晋玄学) ontology, the metaphysics of Dao, and pedagogical innovations in honors education. Notable publications include works on truthmaking theories, comparative philosophy of language, and metaphysical explanation.

Teaching and research interests emphasize interdisciplinary dialogue between Eastern and Western traditions, as seen in his courses on Chinese philosophy and metaphysics. He has presented widely on topics ranging from Daoist nonaction to honors curriculum design, advocating for pedagogy that fosters student-driven scholarship and human flourishing.