My passion for teaching began during high school when I taught martial arts. This initial experience sparked a lifelong love for sharing knowledge and fostering growth in others. While pursuing my undergraduate studies in philosophy, I had the privilege of serving as an unofficial teaching assistant, further solidifying my commitment to education. During graduate school, I gained valuable experience as a teaching assistant for various professors and classes. It was during this time that I taught my first independent course on Big Data ethics, a transformative experience that allowed me to design the curriculum and create teaching materials. Since then, I have been fortunate to teach a wide range of courses, from introductory surveys to specialized courses developed from scratch. Additionally, I've had the opportunity to teach at a variety of academic institutions including both the University of Nebraska - Lincoln and Kansas State University. I am currently an instructor at the University of Nebraska - Omaha. The opportunity to connect with diverse students, ignite intellectual curiosity, and witness their academic progress continues to be a driving force in my career. Below, you'll see a list of courses that I currently / regularly teach.
To see a list of my previously / not-regularly taught classes, click here.
Currently / Regularly Teaching
PHIL1010 - Meaning of Life
We all ponder questions about life's purpose and meaning. Now, as college students, these questions become even more pressing, influencing our choices and direction. In this course, we'll delve into these fundamental questions, developing our thinking and analytical skills to assess potential answers. Our goal is to embark on a journey of truth-seeking, gaining a clearer understanding of our desires and how to pursue a meaningful life.
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PHIL2030 - Introduction to Ethics
This course delves into the core concepts and controversies that have shaped moral philosophy, from the allure of relativism and egoism to the enduring ideals of happiness, obligation, and justice. We'll grapple with the complexities of freedom, conscience, love, religious precepts, and the very language we use to express our moral values. Through critical analysis and lively discussion, you'll develop the tools to navigate the ethical dilemmas of our time and forge your own moral compass.
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PHIL3230 - Philosophy of Video Games
This course examines the philosophy of video games, focusing on their status as a unique and evolving art form. Students will explore how games challenge traditional definitions of art, narrative, and beauty. They'll delve into the ethical complexities of violence and morality within games and consider the broader impact of video games on players and society. Through readings, discussions, and hands-on gameplay, students will analyze the complex philosophical and artistic dimensions of this powerful cultural force.
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PHIL3050 - Ethical Theory
This course is a detailed examination of selected topics in normative ethics and/or metaethics. Normative ethical questions to consider may include: Is the morally right thing to do always the thing that has the best consequences, as so-called "consequentialists" believe? What sorts of things are intrinsically good, i.e., good in themselves, regardless of their effects? Metaethical questions to be considered may include: Are there any objective moral facts? If so, where do they come from?
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PHIL3070 - Leadership Ethics in Practice
In today's complex and interconnected world, ethical leadership is a necessity. Ethical leaders inspire trust, foster a positive organizational culture, and drive sustainable success. This course aims to equip future leaders with the essential moral knowledge and reasoning skills required to navigate the broad and difficult challenges they will confront. In particular, students will study the philosophical foundations of ethical leadership, examine how these illuminate historical and contemporary cases of leadership success and failure, and apply the lessons to their own experience.
Syllabus