MTS, Duke University
MA, PhD, University of Chicago

Russell P. Johnson studies religious ethics and the philosophy of communication. His research focuses on disagreement, antagonism, and how groups imagine and treat their enemies. His work draws from rhetorical theory, Christian theology, peace and conflict studies, and dialogical philosophy to explore how the "good guys versus bad guys" mindset distorts people's perceptions of themselves and their opponents. His teaching includes courses on nonviolent direct action, argumentation and epistemology, and religion and film. His first book, Beyond Civility in Social Conflict: Dialogue, Critique, and Religious Ethics, is about the ethics of communication and how to challenge people's views in a compassionate and disruptive way. Dr. Johnson is a monthly columnist for Sightings and his articles can be found here.

Contact Dr. Johnson for matters involving the Religion Core sequence or the Religious Studies major and minor.