David Newheiser

David Newheiser is an Associate Professor of Religion at Florida State University within the College of Arts and Sciences. He holds a PhD from the University of Chicago, an MPhil from Oxford University, and a BA from Washington and Lee University. His research focuses on Political Theology, Democratic Theory, and Poststructuralist Ethics, particularly exploring secularism, atheism, and the intersection of religion with contemporary philosophy. He serves as vice-chair of the Committee for the Public Understanding of Religion and co-edits The Journal for the Academic Study of Religion. Key publications include *Hope in a Secular Age* (2019), *The Varieties of Atheism* (2022), and *Art-Making as Spiritual Practice* (2025). He has received prestigious awards such as the Manfred Lautenschlaeger Award and the ATF Literary Trust Book Prize. Newheiser’s work bridges academic and public engagement through radio appearances, podcasts, and articles addressing modern ethical dilemmas and the role of religion in society.

His research interests emphasize critical analyses of religious and secular frameworks, including studies on neoliberalism, miracles in democratic contexts, and the ethical dimensions of hope. He has led grants exploring spirituality in art, atheism dialogues, and the relationship between hope and marginalization. Teaching focuses on Christian thought, biblical interpretation, and historical theology. Newheiser actively contributes to academic service, including editorial roles for journals and conference organization in political theology and religious studies.