David A. Cooper

David A. Cooper, born in 1942, is a British philosopher and writer with a distinguished academic career. He held a professorship at Durham University, retiring in 2008, and has lectured at numerous institutions globally. Cooper has also served in leadership roles for prominent philosophical societies, including the Aristotelian Society and the Friedrich Nietzsche Society. Beyond his academic pursuits, he is actively involved with Project Sri Lanka, a charity focused on educational and humanitarian projects.

His extensive publications cover a wide array of philosophical domains, including language, education, ethics, aesthetics, and environmental concerns. In recent years, Cooper has focused on themes such as Buddhist aesthetics, the connection between beauty and virtue, Daoism, our relationship with animals, and the concept of mystery. He has also authored four novels set in Sri Lanka. Cooper's work often delves into the intersection of Eastern and Western philosophical traditions, exploring concepts relevant to understanding nature, meaning, and human existence.

David A. Cooper's philosophical output spans a broad spectrum, encompassing areas such as the philosophy of language, ethics, and aesthetics. He has extensively explored environmental philosophy and animal ethics, notably in his work 'Animals and Misanthropy,' where he argues for a justified misanthropy towards humanity based on its treatment of animals. Cooper's research also delves into Eastern philosophies, particularly Daoism and Buddhism, examining their perspectives on nature, virtue, and the environment. His work frequently engages with the notion of mystery, exploring its significance in understanding life and our connection to the natural world. He has also investigated the relationship between beauty and virtue, the cultural aspects of food, and the importance of gardens.

Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at Durham University, David A. Cooper's academic journey began with a lectureship at Oxford University in 1967. He subsequently taught at various universities, including Miami, London, and Surrey, before his appointment as Professor of Philosophy at Durham in 1986. His international academic engagement is highlighted by visiting professorships in the United States, Canada, Malta, Sri Lanka, and South Africa, and a distinguished visiting professorship at Peking University in 2022. Cooper has also held leadership positions in several key philosophical organizations, serving as Chair or President of the Aristotelian Society, the Mind Association, the Friedrich Nietzsche Society, and the Philosophy of Education Society of Great Britain. He is also the joint editor of 'Key Thinkers on the Environment' and a regular book reviewer for publications like The Times Literary Supplement.

Beyond his extensive philosophical writings, David A. Cooper is also an author of fiction. He has published four novels, all of which are set in Sri Lanka. These include 'Street Dog: A Sri Lankan Story,' its sequel 'Old Stripe,' 'A Shot on the Beach,' and 'The Crossjack Club.' These narrative works offer a different avenue through which Cooper explores themes and settings that have informed his broader philosophical inquiries, particularly those related to his experiences and engagement with Sri Lanka.