Kristina Musholt

Kristina Musholt is Professor of Cognitive Anthropology at the Institute of Philosophy, Leipzig University, and a founding member of the Leipzig Research Center for Early Childhood Development. She is also affiliated with the International Max Planck Research School on Neuroscience of Communication. Her academic journey includes a Junior Professorship at Magdeburg University and a fellowship at the London School of Economics.

• PhD in Philosophy (2011), Humboldt University Berlin and Berlin School of Mind and Brain
• Studies in Human Biology (Marburg), Neuroscience & Philosophy (Magdeburg)
• Visiting Scholar at MIT (2007–2009)

Musholt’s research integrates philosophy of mind, cognitive science, and empirical inquiry. Key themes include the development of self-consciousness, social cognition, normativity, and the interplay between conceptual and nonconceptual representation. Her work explores human-nonhuman animal cognition and ethics, as well as the philosophy of childhood.

Recent publications examine epistemic agency, affective engagement, and the social shaping of cognition. Collaborations span institutions like the University of Warwick, University of Geneva, and the John Templeton Foundation, focusing on intellectual humility and normativity.

• Fellow, London School of Economics
• Member, Young Academy (BBAW and Leopoldina)
• Visiting Scholar, MIT
• Awarded book: Thinking about Oneself (MIT Press)

She teaches philosophy of mind, ethics, and interdisciplinary courses in Early Childhood Research, including modules on the philosophy of childhood and moral psychology. Her advising includes doctoral students in cognitive anthropology.