معرفی
Anton Julius Kurki is an Associate Professor and Academy of Finland Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Helsinki's Faculty of Law. He specializes in legal theory, philosophy, and animal law, teaching in Finnish, Swedish, and English. His work focuses on legal personhood, rights theory, and the intersection of animal rights with constitutional law.
Education:
- Title of Docent in Jurisprudence, University of Turku (2020)
- PhD in Law, University of Cambridge (2017)
Research Interests:
Kurki's research centers on legal theory and philosophy, with a particular focus on animal law and legal personhood. His work examines whether animals, AI systems, and nature can hold legal rights, challenging traditional boundaries of legal subjectivity. He explores concepts like animal dignity as "more-than-welfarism," arguing for frameworks that go beyond mere welfare considerations. His scholarship also addresses the interest theory of rights, legal positivism, and the philosophical foundations of legal concepts.
Recent Publications Trends:
Kurki's recent work shows a clear trajectory toward expanding the boundaries of legal personhood, particularly in animal law. His publications demonstrate growing international recognition, with articles appearing in top journals like Oxford Journal of Legal Studies and Modern Law Review. His research increasingly addresses practical applications of theoretical frameworks in Nordic legal contexts.
Scientific Awards:
- Litteraturpris (2012)
- Nuoren kirjoittajan palkinto (2013)
- Salje Medal (2018)
- Yorke Prize (2018)
Advising and Grants:
Kurki serves as a Supervisor for the Doctoral Programme in Law at the University of Helsinki. He leads multiple significant research projects including "Agency in Law" (funded by the European Research Council, 2024-2028), "Digital Distraction: Philosophical Perspectives" (2024-2026), and "Animals under a Welfarist Regime" (University of Helsinki project, 2020-2023). His work has attracted substantial research funding, demonstrating the significance of his contributions to legal theory.
Professional Activities:
With over 100 recorded activities including 37 invited talks, 25 manuscript reviews, and 18 oral presentations, Kurki is actively engaged in the international academic community. He has participated in numerous conferences and workshops, including the MINT Yale Workshop on Normative Philosophy of Computing. His media presence includes coverage in University of Helsinki press regarding his advocacy for constitutional recognition of animal rights.
