Matthew Shea

Dr. Matthew Shea is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Associate Director of the Center for Bioethics at Franciscan University. He specializes in moral philosophy and bioethics, focusing on human flourishing, natural law ethics, and ethical issues in healthcare. His work addresses vulnerable patient populations and the philosophical foundations of bioethical decision-making.

Education: B.A. in Philosophy from Boston College (2009), Ph.D. in Philosophy from Saint Louis University (2018), and a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Clinical Ethics at UCLA (2020). His doctoral work under Eleonore Stump developed a relationship-centered account of human flourishing within natural law ethics.

Research interests include integrating natural law theory with contemporary bioethical challenges, particularly in end-of-life care, disability ethics, and healthcare policy. His recent book God and Happiness (Cambridge 2024) explores the intersection of theistic ethics and human well-being.

Publications reflect engagement with foundational ethical theories and applied bioethical dilemmas, emphasizing the need for robust theoretical frameworks in clinical practice. His postdoctoral work at UCLA Health involved ethics consultation, policy development, and teaching across medical, nursing, and public health programs.

Previously held positions include faculty roles at Loyola Marymount University’s Bioethics Institute and the University of Scranton. Active in interdisciplinary collaborations bridging philosophy and healthcare professions.