Jason Miller

My primary interest is in 19th Century European philosophy, with a particular emphasis on the relation between Kant and post-Kantian German idealism (esp. Hegel). I am particularly interested in the philosophical concept of subjectivity that emerges within this context, and especially how this concept is developed at the intersection of political and aesthetic theory. I am currently working on a book manuscript which develops a Hegelian account of how social institutions (such as art) shape and challenge our current concepts of subjectivity. In drawing on the rich philosophical tradition of idealism, my aim is not only to challenge the prevailing skepticism (or cynicism) toward the concept of the subject in much postmodernist philosophy, but also to reframe this debate within a set of concerns relevant to contemporary aesthetics, ethics, and social and political philosophy.  Moreover, an integral part of my research has been an active engagement with others who address such questions from different disciplinary perspectives. Thus my work is informed not only by historic and analytic philosophical traditions, but also by political theory, cultural theory, literature, and the visual arts.

I teach courses in 19th century philosophy (with a particular emphasis on the German tradition), existentialism (with a particular emphasis on its literary manifestation), and philosophy of art. I also teach a course on the relation between art and politics in continental philosophy, which will be the basis for a future research basis. Also in connection with this interest, I will be teaching a freshman writing seminar called “Art and Society.” Both the content and nature of these courses reflect my strong commitment to integrating philosophical inquiry with other disciplines and with broader concerns of contemporary political and cultural life.

Apart from philosophy, I devote a good bit of time to other interests. With a background in studio art, I try to keep active creatively. I work primarily in metal sculpture, but am also interested in performance art and more experimental media. I also have a deep affinity for the sport of boxing and an appreciation for craft beers.