I received my PhD in philosophy in 1992 under the direction of Richard J. Blackwell—at that time The Danforth Chair in Humanities at Saint Louis University. He is currently Professor Emeritus. Professor Blackwell (1929 -) grew up in South Euclid, Ohio, a suburb of Cleveland, where he attended St. Ignatius High School,  MIT, (where he studied physics) and St. Louis University, where he received his PhD in philosophy in 1954. (Professor Blackwell also did graduate work in physics.) After a short stint in the philosophy department at John Carroll University in Cleveland, he came to St. Louis University in 1961.

Professor Blackwell is an authority in the history of philosophy, the philosophy of science, and is one of the world’s foremost experts on the Galileo affair. In 2001, he was the recipient of the Aquinas Medal for: "Outstanding teaching; personal publications of permanent and scholarly value; influence upon American philosophical thought without reference to membership in the American Catholic Philosophical Association." Past recipients of this include some of the most illustrious names in 20^th century philosophy: Jacques Maritain, Etienne Gilson, Frederick Copleston, Yves Simon, Vernon J. Bourke, James Collins, Bernard Lonergan, Joseph Owens, Norris Clarke, Ernan McMullin, Quentin Lauer, Ralph McInery, and Peter Geach. In addition to his outstanding record of scholarly achievement, Professor Blackwell directed approximately forty dissertations during his tenure at St. Louis. His Ph.D students include: Gary Gutting (Notre Dame); Robert J. Richards (Chicago); and Dominic Balestra (Fordham); among others. Professor Blackwell’s dissertation “Aristotle’s Theory of Predication” was completed under the direction of Leonard J. Eslick who died in 1991. Professor Esclick received his PhD at the University of Virginia in the early 1930s.

I was especially influenced by Professor Blackwell’s belief that a good philosopher must understand science. Moreover, he also introduced me to the philosophical implications of evolutionary theory—the most influential theory in my philosophical thinking. Through a successive series of seminars, I came to realize how physical, mental, social, and cosmic life evolve; I began to see that through the process of development lies the only viable hope for humankind and their post-human descendents. Moreover, his even temper and gentlemanly manner inspire me to this day.

Also, while at St. Louis University, I was heavily influenced by Professor William C. Charron. He is an authority on game theory, modern philosophy, social and political philosophy, and the literature and philosophy of T.S. Eliot. In addition he was a confidant and friend during my long years as a graduate student. His clarity of mind and love of the craft of writing still influence me today.

JGM