Mara van der Lugt

Dr. Mara van der Lugt is a Lecturer in Philosophy at the University of St Andrews, affiliated with the School of Philosophy, Anthropology and Film Studies. Her work bridges historical and contemporary philosophy, focusing on pessimism traditions, environmental ethics, and climate change philosophy. She has authored four books, including Hopeful Pessimism (2025) and Dark Matters (2021), which received prestigious awards. Current research includes a Templeton Foundation-funded project on 'Existential Gratitude and Spirituality' with Dr. King-Ho Leung.

Her research interests span 17th-century to modern philosophy, with emphasis on animal ethics, climate crisis responses, and the concept of 'hopeful pessimism.' Notable publications include analyses of Pierre Bayle's historical contributions and ethical questions surrounding child creation. Awards include PROSE Awards recognition and a Times Literary Supplement honor.

Dr. van der Lugt supervises PhD student Miguel De La Cal Moreno. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates historical scholarship with modern ethical dilemmas, addressing topics from reproductive ethics to existential gratitude. She actively engages with public philosophy through articles in Aeon and Time Magazine.