Michael Kates

Michael Kates champions interdisciplinary research on labor justice and exploitation, serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Philosophy at Saint Joseph’s University. In addition to his teaching role, he is the Director of the Pedro Arrupe, S.J. Center for Business Ethics, where he integrates philosophical inquiry with practical ethical challenges in the business world. His scholarly work has been featured in prestigious journals such as Philosophy & Public Affairs and the Journal of Business Ethics, reflecting his commitment to advancing understanding in these critical areas. Before his current position, Michael was a Junior Faculty Fellow with the Georgetown Institute for the Study of Markets and Ethics, where he engaged with leading scholars in exploring ethical dimensions of market practices. His tenure as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Georgetown University further enriched his academic experience, allowing him to delve deeper into the philosophical underpinnings of labor and exploitation. Michael's research interests are deeply rooted in the ethical implications of labor practices and the concept of exploitation, seeking to bridge the gap between theoretical frameworks and real-world applications. His work often challenges conventional perspectives, aiming to foster a more equitable and just society through rigorous philosophical analysis. In his role at Saint Joseph’s University, Michael is dedicated to mentoring students and encouraging them to critically engage with complex ethical issues. His teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, preparing students to navigate and address the moral challenges they will encounter in their professional lives.