Faculty Profile for Dr. Justin Williams

Biography Section

Biography and Education

I received my Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University of North Texas where my advisors where Ricardo Rozzi, Michael Thompson, and Martin Yaffe. I received my MA. in Applied Philosophy and Ethics at Texas State University. I received my BA in History at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. I received my Associates of Fine Art at South Plains College. I remain an active research fellow under Ricardo Rozzi's mentorship with the Sub-Antarctic Biocultural Conservation Program and the Cape Horn International Research Center in the UNESCO Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve of Chile. I am Co-Founder of the TXST Engaged Ecology Initiative in the Department of Philosophy. Our initiative is working with the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment to develop long-term socio-ecological monitoring through biocultural conservation research in the Texas Hill country. I am a graduate advisor to the Environmental Leadership, Engagement, and Ethics Certification.

Teaching Interests

I have developed and taught courses in: Environmental Ethics, Integral Ecology, Philosophy of Ecology, Eco-phenomenology, Field Environmental Philosophy, Biocultural Conservation/Ethics, Engaged Ecology.

Research Interests

My scholarly work focuses on the ontological and ethical implications of ecology and complexity. My interests intersect with the ontological and ethical implications of ecology and complexity. I think these disciplines provide a conceptual model capable of aiding Western thought towards more fulfilling land ethics, a robust metaphysics, and the redevelopment of language-habits, language-culture, engaged ecology, to achieve socio-ecological flourishing. I work with the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment to develop programs on mindfulness and reconnection with freshwater ecosystems whereby we employ eco-phenomenological methodologies, Field Environmental Philosophy, and biocultural conservation. With the Meadows Center I am a part of a team that is establishing a biocultural conservation program that is partnered with the Indigenous Cultures Institute and the Watershed Association to preserve the rich biocultural heritage of one of the longest continuously inhabited eco-regions of the United States.