I am a writer and professor with a background in critical theory and the social study of science and technology (STS). I hold a PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies from Virginia Tech. In the past, my focus has been on political epistemologies of digitality; today, as a public-facing scholar, I am probably best described as a critical science and tech studies generalist. Recent areas of study have included theoretical and empirical research on LLMs; the scientization of psychedelics; and considerations of taste, aesthetic judgment, and the literary in the age of generative AI. Most of my public work to date is about the cultural theorist Mark Fisher, psychedelic medicine, and AI.
Right now — in mid-2026 — my research is following two tracks. First, I am looking at the constellation of ideas and agendas associated with the burgeoning Cultural AI niche, with a focus on recent monographs from Fabian Offert, Leif Weatherby, M. Beatrice Fazi, Alex Galloway, and Matt Handelman. Second, in preparation for my upcoming public course Anti-Civilization: Recovering From Industry and Progress, I am reading about left-anarchism and philosophies of deep time, deep ecology, and the nature of origins. They seem different, but the red threads are there…
In 2025, I left a traditional academic career to work independently and establish The Lenox Institute for Advanced Study, where I serve as Executive Director. I am also affiliated with the LEPHT HAND podcast, the Acid Horizon Research Commons, Bard Microcolleges, and the Weirdosphere educational platform.
Since 2023, I’ve lived in New York City, and I’m regularly in Hudson Valley region. In my free time, I like to write fiction, play piano, hike, and read across a wide array of genres and traditions.
Here’s my headshot, and here I am on video. If you’d like to work with me as a writer, editor, speaker, or consultant, please email [email protected]. Thanks!
