My background

I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago before moving to Belgium at the age of 19 to live with the woman who would become my wife. After learning French, I enrolled in the philosophy program at UCLouvain, where I've completed a bachelor's, master's and Ph.D. My passion for research was sparked in 2011 when I discovered Axel Honneth's recognition theory, focused on the relational bases of autonomy. This theory inspired me with its diagnostic clarity as much as it frustrated me by not deploying its powerful conceptual tools to tackle the fundamental issues of education and resilience. My doctoral research project was a direct answer to this inspiration and frustration.

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In the wake of my Ph.D., I took a step into the world of practice, teaching English and leading various applied research projects at EPHEC in Brussels from 2020-2023. These experiences were extremely instructive and deeply reinforced my conviction that responsive pedagogical relationships constitute the cornerstone of both educational motivation and the development of autonomy and responsibility. Since 2021, I've also been involved in more academic research on Hartmut Rosa's work on resonance. 

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I am currently employed an invited professor at UCLouvain, where I take part in research activities as a scientific collaborator connected to the Center for the Philosophy of Law.

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I live in Grez-Doiceau with the love of my life, Marina, and our son, James Ernest. Alongside my passion for teaching and research, I also love cooking, gardening, playing guitar and singing.