David Ingram

David Ingram is a Professor in the Philosophy Department at Loyola University Chicago, specializing in social and political philosophy with a distinctive empirical approach to critical theory. His work bridges continental philosophy traditions with Anglo-American political thought, focusing on global poverty, development practices, and systemic critiques of capitalism.

Dr. Ingram's research interests include:

• Critical theory with empirical grounding
• Poverty studies and development practices
• Capitalism critique and alternative economic models
• Agency theory and recognition theory
• International legal institutions and humanitarian responses
• Micro-finance and women's empowerment

His recent publications reveal a trend toward connecting philosophical theory with on-the-ground realities. Drawing from Hegelian philosophy, Rawlsian social contract theory, and the capabilities approach (Sen and Nussbaum), Ingram moves beyond traditional critical theory by incorporating statistical evidence and field observations. His book World Crisis and Underdevelopment (2018) and upcoming textbook on ethics of development with Tom Derdak represent this synthesis of theory and practice.

Dr. Ingram actively mentors graduate students, currently directing Drew Thompson's dissertation. His scholarship is deeply informed by extensive fieldwork, having traveled to Africa, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic to witness global poverty conditions firsthand and work with organizations like the United Farm Workers Union.

He maintains international scholarly connections, having been invited to deliver a keynote address at the Centre for Ethics and Poverty Research at the University of Salzburg on recognition theory and poverty. Ingram advocates for 'network solidarity'—the convergence of diverse social movements around shared critiques of capitalism while pursuing specific reform goals through legal institutions.