Patrick R. Frierson

Patrick R. Frierson is the Paul Pigott and William M. Allen Professor of Ethics and Philosophy at Whitman College, where he serves as Chair of the Philosophy Department and Co-Director of Law, Culture and the Humanities. He is on sabbatical during 2025-2026. His academic work spans the history of modern philosophy, ethics, philosophy of religion, and philosophy of science, with a focus on Immanuel Kant and Maria Montessori.

Education

• B.A. from Williams College
• M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame

Research Focus

Prof. Frierson specializes in modern philosophy (17th–19th centuries), particularly Kant's moral philosophy and philosophical anthropology. He also investigates Maria Montessori's educational philosophy, emphasizing its ethical and metaphysical dimensions. His research has been funded by prestigious organizations including the National Endowment for the Humanities and the Earhart Foundation.

Grants & Affiliations

• National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH)
• Earhart Foundation
• Spencer Foundation

Personal Contributions

Outside academia, he coaches Lego robotics at his children's school and teaches elementary students at his church. He holds a B.A. from Williams College and M.A./Ph.D. from the University of Notre Dame.