Paul Ott

Paul Ott is an Advanced Lecturer in the Department of Philosophy at Loyola University Chicago. His research focuses on American pragmatism (particularly John Dewey and Aldo Leopold), environmental philosophy and ethics, ethical theory, and social-political philosophy. He integrates analytic and continental traditions in his work, currently exploring connections between Leopold’s land ethic and Native American land ethics, as well as functionalist interpretations of 'nature.'

Education:

• PhD, 2010, SUNY Buffalo
• MA, 2002, San Francisco State University
• BA, 1997, UC San Diego

His research investigates relational views of value, pragmatic metaethics, and environmental justice. Ott critiques traditional intrinsic value theories and advocates for experiential unity in environmental ethics. His work bridges Dewey’s aesthetics with Leopold’s conservation philosophy to address motivational gaps in environmental action.

Grants & Advising: No specific grants or advisees are listed, but his teaching and research involve mentoring students in philosophy and environmental ethics.

Labs/Teams: He is affiliated with Loyola’s research groups including the History of Philosophy Roundtable and Phenomenology Research Group, contributing to interdisciplinary ethics discussions.