Juan Sebastián Ospina

Juan Sebastián Ospina serves as a Lecturer in Philosophy at Smith College, teaching courses that bridge social and political philosophy, philosophy of law, ethics, and Latin American philosophical traditions through decolonial and continental frameworks.

His academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of Oregon
• M.A. in Philosophy from San Francisco State University
• M.A. in Philosophy from Universidad de los Andes
• B.A. in Philosophy from Universidad del Rosario

Ospina's research critically examines the interplay between law and violence, moral obligations, political ontology, and rights theory through decolonial lenses. His doctoral work at the University of Oregon centered on Enrique Dussel's politics of liberation, developing alternative conceptualizations of law, constituent power, and institutions rooted in Latin American philosophical thought. This interdisciplinary approach synthesizes historical philosophy, continental political theory, and decolonial epistemologies to challenge Eurocentric legal and political frameworks.

Prior to academia, Ospina applied his expertise in human rights advocacy and transitional justice, notably serving as advisor to Colombia's High Commissioner for Peace during 2012-2014 where he contributed to national peace initiatives and post-conflict reconciliation processes.