Joel A. Martinez

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I am a philosopher in Portland, OR. I study the history of moral philosophy as well as contemporary moral theory. My work focuses on moral decision-making and moral theory. I argue that reasoning about who we aim to be and what lives we aim to live are effective ways to make practical decisions. In addition, I do not think there is a useful or accurate distinction between theory & practice. One need not have a PhD in Philosophy to engage in deep philosophical reflection about morality. Similarly, in my view, abstract theorizing about morality is, and ought to be, a practical endeavor. I am now studying moral decision-making and Artificial Intelligence. I am also studying and developing courses in Latin American Philosophy. I think this is an exciting time to research and teach Philosophy. 

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I was born in Albuquerque, N.M.  I spent most of my life near the U.S./Mexico border. I moved to Portland, OR to teach Philosophy. The Pacific Northwest is one home. But New Mexico is always my first home.