Matthew Potolsky is Professor of English at the University of Utah, specializing in nineteenth-century literature and literary theory. His career spans from 1998 Lecturer at Harvard University to current University Professorship. He earned a BA in Comparative Literature and Philosophy (1990), followed by MA and PhD in Comparative Literature (1992, 1997) from UC Irvine. Chair of English Department (2013-2016) University Professor (2014-2016) Research focuses on Decadence , Mimesis , Finance-Aesthetics intersections , and Government Secrecy . His work traces connections between financialization and decadent aesthetics, revealing how economic cycles influence artistic production. Key themes include: Decadent anti-realist literary movements Finance capital's cultural impact Decadent counterpublic formations Victorian aesthetic education debates Sublime aesthetics in national security Cosmopolitanism in literary communities Recent publications analyze: Decadent style as financialization rhetoric Reintroduction of verisimilitude theory Decadent responses to financial crises Mimetic labor in artistic production Decadent cosmopolitan counterpublics Historical parallels between financialization and literary decadence
Tim Elmo Feiten is an Assistant Teaching Professor of Philosophy at the University of Cincinnati. His research bridges philosophy of science with continental philosophy, focusing on life sciences, mind studies, and AI ethics. He holds degrees from the University of Freiburg (B.A. 2009, M.A. 2012) and University of Cincinnati (M.S. 2024, M.A. 2024, Ph.D. 2024 in Philosophy and the Life Sciences). His work explores themes such as embodied cognition, public engagement with science, and AI democratization. Key contributions include reinterpreting thinkers like Uexküll and Stirner through modern scientific frameworks. He critically examines intersections between art, technology, and society, emphasizing methodological rigor in game-theoretic models of cultural evolution. Feiten's articles span enactivism critiques, neuroplasticity ethics, and literary analysis of Eastern European representations. His writing synthesizes continental philosophy with empirical sciences, advocating for interdisciplinary dialogue. Current research emphasizes democratizing AI development and fostering participatory science engagement. No scientific awards listed. Advising and grants are not detailed in available texts. Active in philosophical communities through publications and conferences.
Timothy Hampton is a Professor of French and Comparative Literature at the University of California, Berkeley , and serves as Director of the Doreen B. Townsend Center for the Humanities . He was previously the Director of the Designated Emphasis in Renaissance and Early Modern Studies and co-chairs the Democracy, Free Speech, and Values study group. His research explores intersections of literature and politics , poetry and song , and the history of emotion and diplomacy in Renaissance and early modern periods. Recent projects include a 2022 France-Berkeley Fund grant on poetry translation and a Diebold Foundation grant for interdisciplinary cultural studies. Notable publications include Bob Dylan: How the Songs Work (2019) and Cheerfulness: A Literary and Cultural History (2022). Upcoming works address premodern colonialism and American education through memoir and cultural critique. His scholarship appears in MLN , Critical Inquiry , and public venues like Salon and Aeon/Psyche .
Andreas Kalyvas serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Politics at The New School for Social Research, where he teaches courses on liberalism, oligarchy, and political thought. Previously, he taught at Columbia University and the University of Michigan, and has held visiting positions at institutions across Spain, Chile, Germany, Poland, and South Africa. His academic credentials include: PhD in Political Science, Columbia University (2001) MA in Political Science, Columbia University (1994) BA in Political Science and Public Administration, National and Kapodistrian University, Athens (1990) Professor Kalyvas's research explores democratic theory and political thought from ancient to contemporary contexts, focusing on sovereignty, constituent power, tyranny, and citizenship. His work bridges jurisprudence, history, and politics with particular emphasis on emergency rule, oligarchic power, and migration. He is currently finalizing Tyranny Legalized: Republicanism, Dictatorship, and the Enemy Within , examining the normalization of authoritarian practices within legal frameworks. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a sustained investigation into democratic foundations amid contemporary crises. His scholarship consistently connects historical political concepts to modern challenges, especially regarding constituent power, democratic breakdowns, and the tension between legal norms and political emergencies. This trajectory demonstrates increasing engagement with postcolonial perspectives and global democratic struggles while maintaining deep roots in classical political theory. His scholarly recognition includes: Laurance S. Rockefeller Visiting Fellowship at Princeton University (2009-2010) Polity Prize for best journal article (2006) Leo Strauss Award for doctoral dissertation excellence (2002) Professor Kalyvas actively mentors graduate students through dissertation supervision and independent studies, with research supported by prestigious fellowships like the Rockefeller award. His teaching portfolio reflects his research expertise, featuring courses on liberalism in crisis, oligarchy, and political thought that examine historical and contemporary power structures. While no formal lab structure is mentioned, his international collaborations and edited volumes with scholars like Federico Finchelstein demonstrate extensive scholarly networks across political theory and continental philosophy.
Marisol De La Cadena is a Professor in the Department of Anthropology at the University of California, Davis, with affiliations in Science and Technology Studies (STS). Her work bridges anthropology, political theory, and environmental thought, focusing on ontological divergence and multispecies relations in Latin America, particularly in Peru and Colombia. Department: Department of Anthropology School: College of Letters and Science University: University of California, Davis Email: mdelac@ucdavis.edu Office: Young Hall 315 Her research centers on the intersection of modern politics and non-modern or ahistorical ontologies, especially through what she calls "ontological openings." Drawing from deep ethnographic engagement with Quechua-speaking interlocutors in the Andes, she explores how earth-beings, humans, and nonhumans co-constitute worlds that exceed Western categories. Her theoretical contributions challenge conventional boundaries between nature and culture, history and timelessness, and politics and cosmology. Her recent fieldwork in Colombia examines human-cow relations on cattle ranches and in veterinary schools, situating these practices within broader ecological crises and post-conflict transitions. Her publications reveal a consistent interest in how ethnographic concepts function as both empirical observations and theoretical tools. The body of her work, including key articles like "Uncommoning Nature" and "Runa: Human but not only," reflects a deep commitment to rethinking anthropological method and theory. Her research trends emphasize ontological politics, multispecies ethnography, and the decolonization of knowledge, contributing significantly to contemporary debates in STS and anthropology. Her scientific honors include: John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation Fellow (2008) Lewis H. Morgan Lecture Series Invited Speaker, University of Rochester (2011) Invited Researcher, Center for Advanced Studies, Norwegian Academy of Sciences (2015) Guest Speaker, Mellon-Sawyer Seminar, University of Cape Town (2010) She has been principal investigator on several major grants, including the John E. Sawyer Mellon-Sawyer Seminar on the Comparative Study of Cultures (2012–2016), a Wenner-Gren Conference Support Grant (2009–2010), and multiple research fellowships from the Guggenheim, Wenner-Gren, and American Philosophical Societies. These grants have enabled collaborative, transdisciplinary research on cosmopolitics, indigeneity, and the anthropology of worlds. She is affiliated with research initiatives such as the Sawyer Seminar on the Comparative Study of Cultures and contributes to global academic networks in anthropology and STS. Her work fosters dialogue between indigenous thought, continental philosophy, and ethnographic practice, creating spaces for alternative modes of knowing and being.
Gayle Salamon is a Professor of English and the Program in Gender and Sexuality Studies at Princeton University. She holds a PhD from UC Berkeley's Department of Rhetoric (2002) and serves as Associate Chair of the English Department. Her work bridges phenomenology, feminist philosophy, queer/transgender theory, disability studies, and Continental philosophy. Education: PhD, UC Berkeley, Department of Rhetoric, 2002 Her research explores materiality, embodiment, and critical phenomenology. Notable works include Assuming a Body (Lambda Literary Award-winning) and The Life and Death of Latisha King , analyzing transphobia through phenomenology. Recent articles engage critical phenomenology's methodologies and masculinity studies. Awards include the Iris Marion Young Prize for Feminist Philosophy (2017) and the Lambda Literary Award. Current projects address mid-century phenomenology’s ethics and pain narratives in disability memoirs.
Pheng Cheah serves as Professor at the University of California, Berkeley, specializing in interdisciplinary research bridging philosophy, literature, and political theory with global implications. His academic credentials include: PhD from Cornell University LLB from University of Sydney His research spans continental philosophy from Kant to Derrida, postcolonial theory, world literature, and globalization studies, with concentrated focus on human rights frameworks, cosmopolitan/national tensions, feminist perspectives, and contemporary Chinese cinema. His methodology integrates literary analysis with political philosophy to examine power dynamics in transnational contexts, particularly across postcolonial Asia where he conducts fieldwork with filmmakers. Publication analysis reveals an evolving trajectory from foundational cosmopolitan/national theory toward biopolitical human rights frameworks and cinematic representations of globalization. His work consistently centers non-Western perspectives—especially Chinese, Southeast Asian, and global South contexts—challenging Eurocentric paradigms through comparative analysis of cultural production and political transformation. No scientific awards are documented in available sources. Professor Cheah mentors graduate students in critical theory and postcolonial studies, guiding research on literature's political dimensions. His scholarly activities are supported by standard academic funding mechanisms enabling extensive archival work and international collaborations, particularly with Asian film communities. He maintains active participation in global studies consortia and postcolonial research networks, frequently collaborating with filmmakers and scholars across the three Chinas through interview-based methodologies.
Victoria Kahn is a Professor and Katharine Bixby Hotchkis Chair in English at the University of California, Berkeley. She specializes in Renaissance and Early Modern literature, Critical Theory, and political thought. Her research explores the intersections of literature, philosophy, and political theology, with a focus on figures like Machiavelli, Hobbes, and Milton. She has held academic roles at Princeton University and UC Irvine before joining Berkeley in 1997. Her key publications include The Trouble with Literature (2020), The Future of Illusion (2014), and Wayward Contracts (2004). These works analyze early modern texts and their impact on modern political and philosophical discourse. She also contributes to comparative literature, examining continental Renaissance texts and literary theory. Education: Ph.D. in English Literature (implied by career path but not explicitly stated) Research Interests: Contract theory, political obligation, Machiavelli’s legacy, and the role of literature in shaping political thought. Her scholarly contributions include interdisciplinary analyses of early modern political theology, rhetoric, and aesthetics. Kahn’s work bridges literary studies with political philosophy, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Renaissance texts. Grants and advising details are not explicitly mentioned, but her extensive publication record reflects sustained academic engagement. She is affiliated with the Department of English and Comparative Literature programs at Berkeley.
Mark Lance is a Professor in the Philosophy Department at Georgetown University and co-founded the Program on Justice and Peace , where he also holds a professorial appointment. His academic career includes a three-year post-doctoral fellowship at Syracuse University after earning his Ph.D. at the University of Pittsburgh and a B.A. from the Ohio State University . Education Ph.D., University of Pittsburgh B.A., Ohio State University Lance's research spans Philosophy of Language , Epistemology , and Metaphysics , with a focus on Normative Pragmatics , Anarchist Theory , and Social Justice Activism . He collaborates with Rebecca Kukla on projects examining intersubjective norms, such as in his work ‘Yo!’ and ‘Lo!’: The Pragmatic Topography of the Space of Reasons (Harvard University Press, 2009), and engages with Wilfrid Sellars ' legacy in works like Placing in a Space of Norms (2008). His recent Google Scholar publications (2024–2020) highlight intersections of Gender Ethics , Mutual Aid , and Pragmatic Normativity . For instance, Telling Gender (2023) bridges linguistic pragmatics and ethical ascription, while Anarchist Responses to a Pandemic (2020) analyzes collective action during crises. The Truth Telling Project further reflects his commitment to anti-racist organizing and education. notable works include: Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli (2013) on second-person normative calls. The Grammar of Meaning (2002), a foundational text on linguistic normativity. Defending Moral Particularism (2006), challenging theoretical ethical frameworks.
James Conant is the Chester D. Tripp Professor of Humanities, Professor of Philosophy, and Professor in the College at the University of Chicago. He also served as Humboldt Professor of Theoretical Philosophy at Leipzig University (2017–2022). He holds a BA (1982) and PhD (1990) from Harvard University. His academic roles include Interim Chair of the Department of Philosophy at the University of Chicago (2014–2015, 2025–2026), co-director of the Forschungskolleg Analytic German Idealism, and director of the Center for German Philosophy at Chicago. Education: Bachelor of Arts, Harvard University (1982) Doctor of Philosophy, Harvard University (1990) Research Interests: Focuses on Philosophy of Language, Philosophy of Mind, Aesthetics, German Idealism, and the History of Analytic Philosophy. He explores themes such as skepticism, Wittgenstein’s methods, rule-following paradoxes, and the interplay between German Idealism and analytic philosophy. Publications Trends: Conant’s recent work includes monographs on skepticism and film aesthetics, co-authored volumes on Wittgenstein, and edited collections of Hilary Putnam’s papers. His articles often critically engage with figures like Kant, Wittgenstein, Nietzsche, and Frege, emphasizing methodological rigor and historical context. Scientific Awards: Anneliese Meier Research Award (2012) Humboldt Prize (2017) Neubauer Collegium Award Grants and Advising: Co-recipient of Mellon Sawyer Seminar Grants (2006–2008) and Humboldt TransCoop Awards. Advised numerous postdoctoral and doctoral researchers through initiatives like the Leipzig-Chicago collaborative projects. Labs/Teams: Leads the Center for German Philosophy at Chicago and co-directs the Center for Analytic German Idealism in Leipzig. Collaborates internationally on projects bridging analytic and continental philosophy.
Edward G. Baring is an Associate Professor of History and the University Center for Human Values at Princeton University, serving as Acting Director of the Early-Career Research Office. His work focuses on modern European intellectual history, particularly the intersection of Catholicism and Continental Philosophy. Baring holds a BA in Mathematics and History from the University of Cambridge and a PhD from Harvard University. His research explores thinkers like Derrida and the development of Continental Philosophy, with notable publications including Converts to the Real (2019) and The Young Derrida (2011). He has also edited works on Derrida and religion. Baring was previously affiliated with Drew University before joining Princeton. He received a Center for Digital Humanities Collaborative Research Grant and contributes to interdisciplinary initiatives at the University Center for Human Values. His academic leadership includes directing early-career research programs.
Charles Donahue is the Paul A. Freund Professor of Law at Harvard Law School, where he has taught since 1980. He specializes in legal history, with a focus on medieval and early modern European legal systems. Donahue holds a B.A. from Harvard College and an LL.B. from Yale Law School. His research emphasizes private law, property, and the intersection of law and religion, particularly medieval canon law. He has authored influential works on marriage litigation in medieval courts and the Oxford History of the Laws of England. Donahue has held visiting appointments at institutions such as the London School of Economics and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Education: A.B. in Classics and English (Harvard, 1962); LL.B. (Yale, 1965). Research Interests: Medieval legal history, Roman law, European legal systems, marriage law, and the history of property rights. His work bridges comparative law and legal historiography. Awards: Fellow of the Royal Historical Society (1986), Docteur honoris causa from University of Paris II (2010), and Fellow of the Medieval Academy of America (2012). He has served as president of the American Society for Legal History and holds multiple honorary memberships in scholarly societies. Teaching: Courses include Roman Law, Continental Legal History, and English Legal History. He has taught Property Law for over 50 years at Harvard.
Laura Hengehold is a Professor of Philosophy at Case Western Reserve University, holding the endowed Beamer-Schneider Professorship in Ethics. Her research focuses on intersections of language, embodiment, and political conflict, drawing on 20th-century French philosophy (Foucault, Deleuze), feminist theory, and African-European political dialogue. She explores how knowledge systems shape women’s bodily experiences, emphasizing ethical and political implications. Key works include Simone de Beauvoir’s Philosophy of Individuation and The Body Problematic . She co-edited African Philosophy for the 21st Century and translated works by Seloua Luste Boulbina. Her scholarship bridges existentialism, post-structuralism, and transnational feminism. Research Interests: Feminist philosophy, continental philosophy, political theory, embodiment studies, decolonial thought. Awards: Beamer-Schneider Professorship in Ethics (2017–present). Teaching: Courses on social/political philosophy, feminist theory, African political thought, and Deleuze. Recent talks include engagements on Simone de Beauvoir’s ethics, African political thought, and Foucault’s influence. She collaborates with the Women and Gender Studies and World Literature Programs at CWRU.
Ryan Preston-Roedder serves as a Professor of Philosophy at Occidental College, appointed in 2017. His academic credentials include a B.A. from Rice University and a Ph.D. from New York University (2007). His campus office is located in Swan Hall #204, and he was on academic leave during Fall 2024 semester. Education: B.A., Rice University Ph.D., New York University (2007) His research program centers on moral and political philosophy, moral psychology, and philosophy of religion, with significant contributions to Africana philosophy and philosophy-literature intersections. Current investigations explore meaning in life, the problem of the absurd, religious outlooks, and love's moral-political dimensions, reflecting a sustained engagement with existential and ethical questions at the individual and societal levels. Analysis of his 2013-2023 publications reveals a cohesive trajectory examining faith (both religious and civic), emotional responses to existential conditions, and utopian political thought. His work consistently bridges analytic philosophy with continental concerns, particularly in addressing how humans navigate meaning, trust, and vulnerability in complex social landscapes. Scientific Awards: 2014 APA Article Prize Honorable Mention No available information exists regarding graduate student advising, research grant funding, or sponsored projects. Similarly, there are no disclosed details about laboratory facilities, research teams, or collaborative institutional partnerships.
Dr. Antoinette K. Kankindi serves as the Global Visiting Associate Professor of Law and Senior Research Fellow in the Integrity Program at Strathmore University Law School, Nairobi, Kenya. Her academic career spans over two decades, with roles including Director of Strathmore Governance Centre (2009–2013) and Senior Lecturer since 2004. She holds a PhD in Political Philosophy (2008, University of Navarra, Spain) and a Master’s in Governance (2005, University of Navarra). Her expertise bridges ethics, politics, and law, focusing on governance, political legitimacy, and African institutional frameworks. Education: PhD in Political Philosophy, University of Navarra (2008) Master’s in Governance, University of Navarra (2005) LLM and LLB, University of Kinshasa Her research emphasizes ethical foundations of politics, particularly in African contexts, addressing integrity in public leadership and democratic traditions. Notable projects include the Student Civic Initiative and Youth and Women’s Participation in Community Development . She publishes in African governance, ethics, and political philosophy, with works in collaboration with institutions like Radboud University and Palgrave MacMillan. Dr. Kankindi’s multilingualism (English, French, Spanish, Italian, Kiswahili) and cross-continental experience enrich her scholarship. She previously worked as a legal officer for Chevron and the Chilean Embassy, contributing to projects empowering marginalized groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
