Kevin McCain

Kevin McCain is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Philosophy at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), within the College of Arts and Sciences. He holds a BA from Southeast Missouri State University, an MA from the University of Missouri–Columbia, and a PhD from the University of Rochester, all in Philosophy. His primary research interests include epistemology, metaphysics, and the philosophy of science, with notable work on phenomenal conservatism, evidentialism, and the intersection of philosophy with pop culture (e.g., Doctor Who and Dungeons & Dragons). McCain advocates for a teaching philosophy that emphasizes accessibility and engagement, stating, 'philosophy is fun, so learning it should be too.'

He has taught courses ranging from introductory philosophy to specialized topics like epistemology and the philosophy of religion. McCain’s scholarly contributions span peer-reviewed articles, edited volumes, and textbooks, including Epistemic Dilemmas: New Arguments, New Angles (2021) and Epistemology: 50 Puzzles, Paradoxes, and Thought Experiments (2021). His work addresses challenges to epistemic justification, the nature of scientific progress, and the role of explanation in knowledge. He maintains an active presence in academic debates through his research and editorial roles in journals like Erkenntnis and Asian Journal of Philosophy.

McCain’s administrative leadership as Department Chair (since 2024) underscores his commitment to fostering academic excellence and institutional development. His research integrates rigorous philosophical analysis with accessible discourse, bridging abstract theory and popular culture to enhance public understanding of philosophical concepts.