J. Burke Rea

Assistant Professor of Philosophy

Fowler 305A
burke.rea@eastern.edu

Dr. Rea is an Assistant Professor of Philosophy, here by way of Baylor University, Boston College, and CSU Fresno. His primary interests are mainly in the philosophy of action and bioethics. Currently, he is analyzing responsibility for what we don’t do and how this analysis relates to end-of-life care (i.e. refusing or withholding treatment). His work is heavily inspired by the Aristotelian tradition, especially Thomas Aquinas and G.E.M. Anscombe. He is also interested in philosophical theology, philosophical anthropology, and medieval philosophy.

Dr. Rea’s wife is a fine artist, who specializes in oil painting and jewelry. They enjoy playing a variety of games together (digital and tabletop), making or baking things (he makes drinks, she makes treats), and, of course, discussing art and aesthetics.

Education

Ph.D., Philosophy, Baylor University

MA, Philosophy, Boston College

BA, Philosophy, History, California State University, Fresno

Classes Taught
  • Introduction to Philosophy
  • Modern Philosophy, Bioethics
Publications

(With Nicholas Colgrove and Derek McAllister) “Moral Enhancement, Acquired Virtue, and Theism: A Response to Brummett and Crutchfield,” Bioethics 2022, 1-8.

Review of Disputes in Bioethics by Christopher Kaczor, The New Bioethics 2021, 1-4.