Susan Dimock

Susan Dimock is a Professor in the Department of Philosophy at York University's Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies. She holds editorial roles as Editor-in-Chief of Dialogue and Associate Editor for Criminal Law and Philosophy and the Journal of Value Inquiry. Her affiliations include membership in graduate programs for Philosophy, Socio-Legal Studies, and Public Policy, Administration and Law.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Philosophy, Dalhousie University
• M.A. in Philosophy, York University
• B.A. in Philosophy and History, University of New Brunswick

Research Focus: Dimock's work examines ethical constraints on state power, especially in criminal law. She develops principles to prevent over-criminalization in liberal societies, analyzing topics like intoxication defenses, preventive detention, and the distinction between mala prohibita and mala in se offenses. Her research integrates contractarian theory, feminist philosophy, and political morality.

Publication Trends: Her 15 most recent articles (1997-2016) focus on criminal law theory, exploring legitimacy of state coercion through frameworks of responsibility, autonomy, and social contracts. Major themes include intoxication liability, hate crime sentencing, and preventive justice.

Awards:

• President’s University-Wide Teaching Award, York University

Leadership: She has served as Master of McLaughlin College, Director of the York Centre for Practical Ethics, and Chair of the University Senate.