Paul McHugh

Dr. Paul McHugh is a Lecturer in Catholic Religious Education at the University of Glasgow’s School of Education, joining in 2023. His career spans secondary education in Catholic schools, educational advising, and resource development. He contributed to the Religious Education Directory for Catholic schools in England and Wales and co-authored supporting textbooks. His interdisciplinary background includes degrees in Mathematics, Computing, Philosophy, Theology, and Education, with a doctorate on John Henry Newman’s philosophy. Research explores the epistemology of faith, medieval philosophy (Christian and Islamic), and the philosophy of education. He engages with comparative education through his Zimbabwe teaching experience and attends GLACIER seminars.

Research interests focus on knowing and believing, contrasting empiricist traditions with phenomenology and Wittgensteinian thought. His work bridges medieval and contemporary epistemological debates, particularly Newman’s contributions. He teaches courses like ‘Theology in Education’ and leads the Aberdeen Catholic Teacher’s Certificate program. Recent publications include analyses of Newman’s influence, epistemological comparisons with William James, and Wittgenstein.

Paul supervises doctoral student Budur A Alotaibi on critical thinking in Saudi Islamic education. He presented at conferences like ACISE 2024 and delivered public lectures on theology and apologetics. Beyond academia, he enjoys birdwatching, hiking, and supporting Mansfield Town FC.