Nicholas Kerton-Johnson

Nicholas Kerton-Johnson serves as the Loy Chair of Political Science and Associate Professor of International Relations in the History, Global & Political Studies Department at Taylor University. His academic work focuses on the intersection of religion and international relations, with particular emphasis on religious freedom and the persecution of religious minorities globally.

Education:

• PhD in International Relations, University of Bristol
• MA in War Studies, Kings College, London
• Higher Diploma in Education—History & Mathematics, University of Cape Town
• Honours Degree in History, University of Cape Town
• BA in History, University of Cape Town

Dr. Kerton-Johnson specializes in international relations with particular focus on religious freedom, US foreign policy, and international security. His research examines how religious considerations shape global politics, with special attention to Christian persecution worldwide. He has developed significant student-engaged research projects including a 14-year database tracking hate crimes against religious minorities (2009-2023) and recent work examining human rights issues with special focus on the Uyghur situation in China (2022-2023).

His publications reveal a consistent analytical framework examining US military interventions through presidential rhetoric. His research spans from Cold War-era interventions through post-9/11 military actions, identifying four key justificatory themes: international law/norms, human rights, national interest, and egoist morality. Notably, his work demonstrates a radical shift in justificatory discourse after 9/11 from international law toward national interest and exceptionalism.

Key Research Initiatives:

• 2009-2023—Student-engaged research database on hate crimes against Christians, Jews, and Muslims
• 2022-2023—Student-engaged research on human rights with special focus on Uyghur genocide

Beyond academia, Dr. Kerton-Johnson maintains an active multifaceted life as owner of a local coffee shop, pastor of a church, sheep farmer, rugby coach for two teams, and carpentry enthusiast—demonstrating his commitment to holistic community engagement alongside scholarly pursuits.