Sarah is currently Assistant Professor of Environmental Ethics at the University of Chicago Divinity School. She earned a PhD in Science, Philosophy, and Religion from the Division of Religious and Theological Studies, Boston University in 2008.
“While at Gustavus we talked a lot about the idea of vocation, of using one’s talents in a way that could benefit the world and give one a sense of satisfaction. This idea helped guide me through my career path. As an environmental ethicist who focuses on energy issues and the ethics of measuring sustainability, I’ve been able to use the knowledge and skills from my physics and religion majors. While most environmental ethicists who have a background in the sciences have a biology background, I’ve found my experience in physics helpful to address a different range of questions. For instance, my knowledge of thermodynamics and nuclear physics helps me understand the physical realities of various energy systems and their side effects; and my knowledge of computer programming prepared me to take dynamic systems modeling in graduate school to understand the theory behind climate modeling. Now, I’m able to use this information and ethical ideas from the world’s religious and philosophical traditions to help develop theories of ethical decision-making about environmental issues. I get to use this knowledge and skills as I teach my graduate students who will be the next generation of environmental ethicists and ethically trained people in a whole host of careers. Fitting all of my interests together in this way is certainly fulfilling for me.”