Transition from Semantics to Ethics

The speaker discusses their transition from initially working on semantics and the philosophy of language to focusing on moral and political philosophy, particularly in relation to identity. This shift was influenced by their early job at Yale, which required engagement with African and African-American studies. As a result, they explored topics such as the philosophy of race and Pan-Africanism, driven by both professional obligations and personal interests, including their family's history in the Pan-African movement. This blend of necessity and curiosity highlights how academic paths can evolve from one interest to another, often influenced by broader societal contexts.