About
Matthew Burch is a Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of Essex's School of Philosophical, Historical, and Interdisciplinary Studies, where he also serves as Director of the Interdisciplinary Studies Centre and Deputy Director of the Essex Autonomy Project. His research employs 'applied phenomenology' - an interdisciplinary approach combining phenomenological methods with other disciplines to address complex problems beyond mono-disciplinary scope.
Research interests include deliberation, disability rights, objectivity, weakness of will, religious experience, and phenomenology of illness. Current work integrates risk studies, phenomenology, human rights law, and philosophy of mind to develop normative frameworks for risk decisions. His publications reflect consistent engagement with phenomenological approaches to practical philosophy and human experience.
Recent articles demonstrate sustained interest in phenomenological methodology, Heideggerian philosophy, normativity theories, and applications to disability rights and medical contexts. Themes include existential dimensions of ideology, rationality beyond traditional reason, and phenomenology's role in medical humanities.
Dr. Burch received an Early Career Research Fellowship from the Independent Social Research Foundation (2018-2019) and has contributed to major projects including AHRC-funded analysis of Mental Capacity Act compliance and Wellcome Trust's Mental Health and Justice project. He leads research teams at the Interdisciplinary Studies Centre and Essex Autonomy Project. No information is available regarding student advising.
