Research. My current research focus is in the area of the philosophy of sport. I have published articles on how politics has, and must, mix with professional sports, on the role of religion in coaching, on why intentional fouling in competitive basketball is unethical, and on reconceiving intercollegiate sport as an academic performance major. I have given presentations on these topics at regional, national and international conferences. My former research was on J.S. Mill’s neglected and fascinating views on the philosophy of religion. I produced the first annotated edition of his Three Essays on Religion (Broadview Press, 2009). For two years, I was a regular community columnist for the Stockton Record and wrote on ethical, religious, critical thinking, and political topics. 

Teaching. I regularly teach courses on the Philosophy of Sport, Moral Problems, God, Faith & Reason, Ancient Greek & Roman Philosophy, Modern & Contemporary philosophy, and Introduction to Philosophy. I want students to understand the relevance of philosophy in their lives and in society. I use active learning methods—class discussion, small group work, polls, class presentations, team projects—so that students reflect on their beliefs, ask critical questions, learn to develop reasoned arguments, and be open-minded to different perspectives. I assign culminating course self-reflection essays where students explain what topics and perspectives have been most impactful on their beliefs and thinking and how. Ultimately, I want my courses to have an impact on students’ beliefs and lives and to promote a spirit of inquiry and life-long learning.