Broadly speaking, my research falls in applied ethics and is both interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary. It centres the human experience and targets injustice, disadvantage, inequity, and the nature of our responsibility to others in the future. As a futurist, I explore related issues through futures studies and the philosophy of space. In addition to research, I am committed to teaching and emphasise active learning tools to help 'unstiffen' the study of philosophy by engaging students through immersive techniques. Students constitute an unrivalled fountain of inspiration and synthesis and I consider myself honoured to teach because it gifts me the remarkable opportunity to learn.
My doctoral dissertation, Whither a Better Place: Philosophical Reflections on Disability and Inclusion, was accepted at the University of Helsinki in December 2024, completing my terminal degree in philosophy. The work is an endeavour within bioethics, healthcare ethics, and social and political philosophy, and explores the intricate dynamics between exclusion, rights, and basic needs — arguing for enhanced state-funded obligations in areas like sexual citizenship and inclusion-based policies.
In addition to research, I am committed to teaching and emphasise active learning tools to help 'unstiffen' the study of philosophy by engaging students through immersive techniques such as thematic introduction, elenctic discourse (the socratic debate), Pecha Kuchas, Oxford style debate, and themed scavenger hunts. Probably the most useful teaching advice I have received was that “You can’t teach them if they’re not there, and they’re not going to be there if you’re boring.” I try very hard not to be boring.
Outside the academic realm, I enjoy reading, mountain bike riding, kayaking, driving, and listening to music — my border collie, Jyp, also encourages me to throw the frisbee (just three thousand more times, please, dad). I am an avid Land Rover enthusiast and maintain a YouTube channel dedicated to owning, maintaining, and modifying them. In 2015, I founded the Kilt-Up 4 Cancer campaign to raise awareness of male-specific cancers, the campaign raised over $150,000 and continues to inspire ongoing efforts worldwide.
The real tea? Well... My favourite colour is purple; I am a sci-fi nerd and prog-rock groupie; and am convinced that melted cheese is an abomination to humanity!
...Oh, and my favourite quote?
"But I wish to be purple, that small part which is bright, and makes all the rest appear graceful and beautiful. Why then do you tell me to make myself like the many? And if I do, how shall I still be purple?" (Epictetus, Discourses, Book 1)
(This and four other philosophical quotes are tattooed in circular Galifreyan on my left shoulder, chest, and back — if Who know, you know.)
