Jacob Stump

Jacob Stump serves as Associate Teaching Professor of Philosophy and Undergraduate Program Director in the Department of Philosophy and Religion at Northeastern University's College of Social Sciences and Humanities. His institutional roles include:

• Faculty in Residence for the Honors Program
• Leader of the Philosophy as a Way of Life Working Group
• Associate Editor of Philosophers’ Imprint

His educational background features a PhD from the University of Toronto.

Stump's research centers on moral psychology within ancient Greek and Roman philosophy, with specialized focus on Platonic concepts of eros, hot cognition, and epimeleisthai (the activity of caring for what one values). He investigates Socrates' methodology for transforming personal values through emotional experiences rather than pure argumentation, positioning philosophy as an active practice for human flourishing. His work bridges classical thought with contemporary ethical and emotional frameworks.

His publications demonstrate consistent engagement with Socratic pedagogy and Platonic psychology, emphasizing experiential learning through ancient philosophical practices. The works reveal evolving applications of Stoic, Socratic, and skeptical methods to modern educational contexts and emotional regulation.

His scientific recognition includes:

• College of Social Sciences and Humanities Outstanding Teaching Award (2020-21)

As Undergraduate Program Director, Stump mentors philosophy students through curriculum design emphasizing experiential application of ancient methods. He directs the Mellon-funded Philosophy as a Way of Life project, which supports initiatives translating philosophical concepts into daily practice. His advising integrates value-mapping exercises and structured reflection techniques derived from classical traditions.

He founded and leads the Philosophy as a Way of Life Working Group, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between philosophy, ethics, and health disciplines. This group partners with Northeastern's Ethics Institute to advance research on anti-racism, health culture, and social justice through classical philosophical frameworks.