The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) has recently announced its latest round of grant winners, and among them are several philosophy professors. These scholars have been awarded for their innovative projects, which promise to enrich our understanding of the humanities. But here's where it gets controversial... The NEH has faced criticism in the past for its funding decisions, particularly during the Trump administration when many grants were canceled. Despite this, the current round of grants shows a significant increase in total funds, with $75.1 million distributed to 84 humanities projects. This raises questions about the types of projects being funded and whether there has been a shift towards certain areas of study. The winners and their projects are as follows: David Ebrey (University of Barcelona) is researching and writing a book on Plato's ideas about the soul. Raymond Hain (Providence College) is creating a cohort of undergraduates dedicated to intellectual, moral, and vocational development rooted in Catholic and Western traditions. Alexander Jech (University of Notre Dame) is working on a book about Søren Kierkegaard's philosophical examination of the biblical story of Abraham and Isaac. James Kreines (Claremont McKenna College) is exploring the arguments for and against metaphysical systems in philosophy, with a focus on German philosophy. Robert Pasnau (University of Colorado, Boulder) is researching and writing a book on the sources of the European Enlightenment in the Middle Ages and Renaissance. John Stigall (Howard University) is leading a three-year project to create a digital repository, traveling exhibition, and teaching materials on the life and work of pioneering mathematician Euphemia Haynes. Several other projects by scholars in nearby fields (e.g., political science, classics) were also about philosophy. But what do you think? Do you agree with the NEH's funding decisions? Or do you think they should have focused on different areas of study? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
