Profile
Before joining the Centre I worked as an independent researcher and journalist, exploring how people use ancient philosophy today. I do a lot of work in public engagement, and enjoy exploring intelligent ideas with public audiences.
Research
Research Interests:
I have two major research interests. Firstly, I am interested in the relationship between classical philosophy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and the modern politics of well-being. I wrote a book on that topic which was published in 2012. Secondly, I am interested in the history of ecstasy and ecstatic experiences in modern culture, and how altered states of consciousness can be healing for us, as well as toxic. I am writing a book about this second area of research.
- Stoicism in modern life
- Philosophy as a way of life
- CBT and its roots in Greek philosophy
- The modern politics of well-being
- The history of ecstasy
- Ecstasy and its place in the arts, religion, medicine and politics