Jim Robinson

Jim Robinson, Ph.D., is a Clinical Lecturer in the Religious Studies Department at Iona University and Director of the Deignan Institute for Earth and Spirit. He holds a Ph.D. from Fordham University, MTS from Harvard Divinity School, and BA from Drew University. His work bridges Ecotheology, Religion and Ecology, and the thought of Thomas Merton and Rosemary Radford Ruether. Robinson actively participates in lay Catholic communities focused on ecology and social justice, including Agape Community, Benincasa Community, and Maryhouse Catholic Worker. His research emphasizes integral ecology, anti-racism, and anti-sexism within theological frameworks.

Education:

• Ph.D., Fordham University
• Master of Theological Studies (MTS), Harvard Divinity School
• Bachelor of Arts, Drew University

Research focuses on the intersection of religion with ecological and social justice issues. Key themes include:

• Integral ecology principles from Laudato Si'
• Merton's engagement with 1960s counterculture
• Ruether's feminist theology and anti-oppression work
• Ethical critiques of factory farming and industrial agriculture

Publications span theology, religious studies, and eco-spirituality. Recent work addresses eco-theological responses to environmental crises and the legacy of 20th-century theologians. Presentations include global conferences on themes like ecological conversion, sacramental worldview, and interfaith environmental ethics.

No scientific awards are explicitly mentioned in available texts. His advising focuses on mentoring students in ecological spirituality and social justice praxis through community-based learning initiatives.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Deignan Institute's ecological initiatives and collaborates with lay communities to develop practical models of integral ecology through urban farming projects and waste reduction programs.