Paul S. Miklowitz

Paul S. Miklowitz is a Professor in the Philosophy Department at California Polytechnic State University's College of Liberal Arts. He maintains an active teaching schedule covering diverse philosophical topics from ethics to history of philosophy, with particular expertise in Plato, Descartes, Kant, and Nietzsche. His office is located in Building 47, Room 34B on the Cal Poly campus.

• Ph.D. and M.Phil. from Yale University
• M.A. from University of Chicago
• B.A. from University of California

Professor Miklowitz's research focuses on metaphysics, epistemology, and the intersection of philosophy with art and literature. His work demonstrates particular strength in German Idealism and postmodern philosophy, with numerous publications exploring Nietzsche's thought, Hegelian dialectics, and the philosophical implications of eternal return. He has developed a distinctive approach to analyzing philosophical texts through both historical and contemporary lenses, often connecting classical philosophical problems with modern artistic expressions.

His scholarly output reveals a consistent engagement with the boundaries of philosophical discourse, examining how philosophical concepts transition into artistic and literary forms. Miklowitz's work frequently addresses the methodological challenges of interpreting philosophical texts while maintaining awareness of their historical contexts and contemporary relevance.

• Fulbright National Screening Committee for academic programs in Germany (2010, 2011, 2013)
• Sabbatical Leave, Cal Poly (Fall 2015)
• Sabbatical Leave, Cal Poly (Fall 2008 - Winter 2009)
• Finalist, Cal Poly Distinguished Teaching Award (AY 2005-2006)
• Visiting Fellow, Princeton University
• Faculty Recognition Award for Outstanding Teaching, College of Liberal Arts
• Teacher of the Year, School of Liberal Arts
• Andrew W. Mellon Postdoctoral Faculty Fellowship in the Humanities, Rice University

Professor Miklowitz has supervised numerous independent study projects and special problems courses, guiding students through complex philosophical texts and concepts. His teaching excellence has been recognized with multiple awards, reflecting his commitment to student engagement and philosophical rigor. He has served in significant departmental roles including Chair of the Philosophy Department (1996-99) and various academic senate committees.

Beyond his academic work, Miklowitz maintains creative interests in photography (with juried awards in New York competitions), painting, poetry, fiction writing, and winemaking, demonstrating the integration of artistic practice with philosophical inquiry that characterizes much of his scholarly work.