Steve Cooke

Dr Steve Cooke is an Associate Professor of Political Theory at the University of Leicester, affiliated with the School of History Politics and International Relations. His research focuses on duties to nonhuman animals, ethical status of political disobedience, and cosmopolitan ethics. He holds a PhD in Politics from the University of Manchester and was awarded the Society for Applied Philosophy’s 30th Anniversary Research Fellowship (2012) for work on violence in defense of animals and the environment.

• Education: B.A. Politics (Open University), M.A. Human Rights (University of Manchester), PhD Politics (University of Manchester)

Research interests include animal ethics, environmental justice, civil disobedience, and the moral imagination. He explores intersections between political theory and applied ethics, particularly regarding nonhuman animals and ecological systems. His work addresses topics like habitat rights, interspecies justice, and ethical dilemmas in animal agriculture.

Key publications examine animal liberation strategies, nuclear deterrence ethics, and cosmopolitan approaches to global justice. His writing critiques state and corporate practices impacting nonhuman life while advocating for expanded ethical frameworks.

• Awards: Society for Applied Philosophy Research Fellowship (2012)

Dr Cooke’s grants and supervision focus on interdisciplinary ethical research. He teaches courses on political theory and has contributed to public debates on animal rights through media engagement.