Meet Elizabeth Brake

by James Messina

1. Where are you from? And where have you lived before coming to Madison?

I grew up in Virginia, outside Washington, DC. I've lived in many places - England, Scotland, Japan, Canada, and, in the US, in Tempe, Arizona, Houston, Texas, and New Orleans, Louisiana!

2. What was your path to philosophy like?

Somewhat accidental! My first degree was in Classics and English Literature. After that, I was teaching English in Japan and picked one of the few books in English off the shelves of the local library - it happened to be a book about philosophy!

3. What are some of the philosophical questions you work on?

What is the ethical significance of genetic ties? How (and why?) should a liberal state recognize and support caring relationships? What moral concepts do we need to address the distinctive wrongs in intimate partner violence?

4. What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of philosophy?

Hiking, yoga, cooking, reading novels, playing with my cats!

5. Do you have a favorite work of philosophy, or favorite philosopher? If so what makes it/them your favorite?

At the risk of appearing to flatter - I think my favorite philosopher is Claudia Card! I'm particularly impressed by the kinds of questions she asked and her boldness in answering them. I only met her once, at the beginning of my career, and I'm thrilled to be in the department where she taught for many years!