We are delighted to announce that Dr. Peg O’Connor, Professor of Philosophy, has been appointed the Raymond and Florence Sponberg Endowed Professor of Ethics. This distinguished chair was established to advance teaching and scholarship in ethics, emphasizing the application of ethical principles to pressing issues across disciplines at the College. It also reflects the values held dear by the Sponbergs: peaceful coexistence, civil rights, and responsible stewardship of our planet.
Dr. O’Connor’s recent work is a profound example of how philosophy can bring insights to issues of addiction, recovery, and trauma—matters that resonate deeply with the Sponberg Chair’s vision. She has authored three notable books on these topics. Her most recent titles are Higher and Friendly Powers: Transforming Addiction and Suffering (2022) and *The Sober Philosopher Workbook for Exploring Addiction and Creating Recovery* (2023), both published by Wildhouse Publications. In addition, her book Life on the Rocks: Finding Meaning in Addiction and Recovery (2016) has continued to contribute meaningfully to the conversation on addiction.
Currently, Dr. O’Connor is pursuing two projects with the working titles Hindering the Essential Arts of Personhood: The Moral Crisis of Childhood Trauma and Recovering Character: Knowing How to Belong to Yourself. These projects aim to expand her contributions to understanding trauma and self-identity in ways that connect ethical inquiry to personal transformation.
Dr. O’Connor’s research interests also include Ludwig Wittgenstein, whom she has studied extensively to explore the intersections of language, ethics, and lived experience. Her books on Wittgenstein include Oppression and Responsibility (2002) and Morality and Our Complicated Form of Life (2008). She also co-edited Feminist Interpretations of Ludwig Wittgenstein (2002). Her blog with Psychology Today, titled “Philosophy Stirred, Not Shaken,” reflects her commitment to making philosophy accessible and engaging for a broad audience.
Congratulations to Dr. O’Connor on this esteemed appointment!