乐播传媒

Dr Joshua Andrews is a Lecturer in Political Philosophy and Ethics whose teaching explores some of the most urgent questions of human and political life. His work brings together freedom, responsibility, power, justice and moral action, helping students understand how ideas shape the world around them and how philosophy can be used to respond to the defining challenges of our time.

Joshua鈥檚 political philosophy is strongly shaped by existential thought and its political possibilities. Drawing on thinkers such as Simone de Beauvoir, Jean Paul Sartre, Albert Camus and Hannah Arendt, he explores what it means to live freely and responsibly in a world marked by uncertainty, injustice and conflict. For Joshua, existentialism is never only about individual meaning. It is also about power, oppression, action, solidarity and the difficult choices people make within political communities. His teaching invites students to ask what freedom really means, how people resist domination, why responsibility matters, and how political life can either limit or enlarge the possibilities of human existence.

A central part of Joshua鈥檚 work is the study of political ideologies and the philosophical values that shape them. He is interested in how liberalism, conservatism, socialism, feminism, anarchism, nationalism and postcolonial thought are built upon deeper assumptions about human nature, authority, equality, freedom and justice. Rather than treating ideologies as abstract labels or party positions, Joshua encourages students to uncover the moral visions behind political ideas and to examine how these visions continue to shape public debate, institutions and social movements today.

In Ethics, Joshua focuses especially on applied ethics and the moral questions raised by major political issues of the day. His teaching examines how ethical theory can help us think through real world problems involving human rights, inequality, migration, climate change, war, protest, technology, sex, taboo and social justice. Students are encouraged to see ethics as something alive and urgent, not simply a set of theories to be memorised, but a way of thinking carefully about what we owe to one another and what kind of world we are willing to build.

Alongside Western ethical traditions, Joshua has a particular interest in Asian moral philosophy, especially ideas linked to San膩tana Dharma and Buddhism. He explores how concepts such as dharma, suffering, compassion, non attachment and moral responsibility can enrich contemporary ethical and political reflection. This gives students the opportunity to think beyond a purely Western philosophical framework and to consider how different moral traditions can illuminate debates about justice, care, community and human flourishing.

Joshua is also known for his creative and ambitious approach to assessment. Alongside traditional academic methods, he designs assignments such as panel discussions, curated music playlists with commentary, social media campaigns, political manifestos and podcasts. These assessments are designed to help students become sharper thinkers, stronger communicators and more imaginative problem solvers. This academic year, he transformed the Applied Ethics class into an ethical think tank, where students worked collaboratively to respond to pressing political and moral issues. In doing so, students used philosophy not as a distant academic exercise, but as a practical tool for understanding and engaging with the world.

Testimony to his innovative assessment and pedagogical approaches, Joshua was awarded the highly esteemed 乐播传媒 Teaching Fellowship in 2023. His teaching seeks to give students the confidence to question inherited ideas, test arguments, connect theory to lived experience and apply philosophical thinking beyond the classroom.

For those studying Political Philosophy and Ethics, Joshua鈥檚 teaching offers an education that is intellectually exciting, politically engaged and deeply relevant to contemporary life. Whether exploring existential freedom, the values behind political ideologies, the moral dilemmas of public life, or the insights of Western and Asian ethical traditions, students are continually encouraged to ask difficult questions, make meaningful connections and imagine new possibilities for the future.

Name: Joshua Andrews

Position: Lecturer

Email: j.andrews@bangor.ac.uk

Phone: 01248 382103

Location: T22

Modules taught

• 贰虫颈蝉迟别苍迟颈补濒颈蝉尘听
• Political Philosophy聽
• Applied Ethics
• Existentialism and Human Rights
• Sex and Society聽
• Hinduism in the Modern World
• Buddhism in the Modern World
• Tales of Might and Morality
• Dissertation

I welcome enquiries from prospective doctoral students interested in exploring topics in political philosophy, ethics, religion and public life. I am especially keen to supervise projects in the following areas:

Political existentialism

Projects examining how existentialist thought can inform political philosophy, political theory and contemporary debates about power, freedom and responsibility. I am particularly interested in work that engages with how existentialism can help us understand democracy, oppression, dignity, human rights, activism, resistance and political agency. I welcome projects that apply existentialist ideas to urgent social and political challenges, asking how human beings can act meaningfully and responsibly in conditions of injustice, uncertainty and constraint.

The moral philosophy of San膩tana Dharma and Buddhism

Research exploring the ethical and political significance of San膩tana Dharma and Buddhist thought, both in classical traditions and contemporary contexts. Areas of interest include, social justice, gender, sexulity and the relationship between individual ethical life and wider political community. I am especially interested in projects that bring Asian moral philosophy into dialogue with contemporary ethical and political questions.

Sex, taboo and ethics

Projects analysing the ethical, philosophical and political dimensions of sex, desire, taboo and transgression. I welcome research that explores how moral frameworks, religious traditions, existentialist philosophy and social norms shape debates around sexuality, embodiment, gender, intimacy, LGBTQ+ experiences, sexual ethics and social policy. This area is particularly suited to projects that examine how societies construct moral boundaries and how those boundaries are challenged, defended or transformed.

Religious Education, Religion, Values and Ethics, and public life

Research on the theory, practice and policy of Religious Education, with particular interest in Religion, Values and Ethics in Wales. I welcome projects examining curriculum development, pedagogical practice, teacher formation, pluralism, worldviews, public values and the role of religion and belief in contemporary education. I am especially interested in work that considers how RVE can foster critical thinking, ethical reflection, dialogue and meaningful engagement with diverse religious and non religious worldviews.

Across these areas, I am particularly interested in projects that connect philosophical and ethical theory with lived experience, public debate and contemporary political challenges.

2026

• Published
  Huskinson, L., Evans-Jones, G., Andrews, J. & Healand-Sloan, R., 13 Oct 2026, 17 p.
  Research output: Book/Report 鈥� Other report 鈥� peer-review
• Published
  Huskinson, L., Evans-Jones, G., Andrews, J. & Healand-Sloan, R., 13 Oct 2026, 19 p.
  Research output: Book/Report 鈥� Other report 鈥� peer-review

2024

• Published
  Huskinson, L., Evans-Jones, G. (Contributor) & Andrews, J. (Contributor), 2 Apr 2024, 24 p.
  Research output: Book/Report 鈥� Other report
• Published
  Andrews, J. (Contributor), Evans-Jones, G. (Contributor), Healand-Sloan, R. & Huskinson, L., 2 Apr 2024, 23 p.
  Research output: Book/Report 鈥� Other report

2026

• Delivered a presentation examining the current landscape of Religion, Values and Ethics (RVE) education in Wales, drawing on research undertaken by the National Centre of Religious Education for Wales (NCREW). The talk explored the implications for educational policy, curriculum development and professional practice, highlighting key considerations for the future of RVE within Welsh education.

  5 Nov 2026

  Activity: Invited talk (Speaker)

• A panel discussion with:

  -Rev Tania ap Sion, executive member of Wales Association of Standing Advisory Councils for Religious Education since 2007, member of the Religious Education Council for England and Wales

  -Calum Morrissey, chair of Conwy Youth Council and Welsh Youth Parliament Member for Clwyd West

  鈥� Amarjite Singh, TUC Cymru Development Officer, on diversity in the workplace

  2 Nov 2026

  Activity: Invited talk (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered a three session online short course exploring the contemporary challenges facing democratic systems and institutions. The course examined key political and philosophical issues surrounding democratic stability, populism, political disengagement, misinformation, protest and political violence. Aimed at prospective university students and the wider public, the course encouraged critical engagement with questions of political legitimacy, institutional trust, democratic participation and the resilience of modern democracy. Through accessible teaching and structured discussion, participants were encouraged to critically evaluate the pressures facing democratic societies and reflect on the relationship between political power, citizenship and democratic accountability.

  26 Oct 2026 鈥� 28 Oct 2026

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered a three session public short course exploring the supernatural through the interdisciplinary perspectives of philosophy, ethics and religion. The course examined fundamental questions surrounding the nature of evil, demonic possession, monsters and humanity's enduring fascination with the unknown. Drawing upon philosophical enquiry, ethical reasoning and religious traditions, participants were encouraged to critically evaluate supernatural beliefs, challenge established assumptions and reflect on the boundaries between the natural and supernatural. Through accessible teaching and structured discussion, the course promoted critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and deeper engagement with complex questions concerning belief, morality and the human condition.

  4 Oct 2026 鈥� 18 Oct 2026

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered a public short course exploring the philosophical and ethical dimensions of crime, punishment and justice. The course examined fundamental questions surrounding moral responsibility, criminal accountability, retribution, rehabilitation and the justification of punishment within contemporary society. Drawing upon key philosophical theories and ethical frameworks, participants were encouraged to critically evaluate competing conceptions of justice, question established approaches to criminal punishment and consider the relationship between morality, law and social responsibility. Through accessible teaching, structured debate and philosophical enquiry, the course promoted critical thinking and informed engagement with complex moral dilemmas surrounding crime and justice.

  11 Mar 2026 鈥� 1 Apr 2026

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered a professional development course for secondary school teachers, focusing on developing subject knowledge, pedagogical confidence and effective approaches to teaching ethics within the Religion, Values and Ethics (RVE) curriculum. The course explored key ethical theories, philosophical approaches to morality and contemporary moral dilemmas, emphasising the importance of critical thinking, ethical reasoning and informed debate. Particular attention was given to making complex ethical concepts accessible to secondary school learners, facilitating sensitive discussions and encouraging students to engage critically with diverse moral perspectives. Through practical teaching strategies, curriculum planning and structured philosophical enquiry, the course supported teachers in delivering engaging, inclusive and academically rigorous lessons that develop students' ability to construct reasoned arguments, evaluate competing ethical positions and reflect on fundamental questions of morality, responsibility and justice.

  20 Jan 2026

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

2025

• Designed and delivered a public short course exploring the nature, formation and influence of cults through philosophical, ethical, religious and sociological perspectives. The course examined the psychological and social dynamics of cult membership, the role of charismatic leadership, mechanisms of control and the relationship between belief, authority and individual autonomy. Through accessible teaching, critical discussion and interdisciplinary enquiry, participants were encouraged to critically evaluate the complexities of religious and ideological movements, challenge common misconceptions and develop a deeper understanding of the ethical questions surrounding manipulation, freedom of belief and human behaviour.

  5 Nov 2025 鈥� 26 Nov 2025

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered a professional development course for secondary school teachers, focusing on developing subject knowledge, pedagogical confidence and effective approaches to teaching Sanatana Dharma within the Religion, Values and Ethics (RVE) curriculum. The course explored key philosophical concepts, religious beliefs, traditions and practices, emphasising the diversity and complexity of Hindu thought and lived religious experience. Particular attention was given to challenging common misconceptions, avoiding oversimplification and ensuring accurate, inclusive and academically rigorous representations of Sanatana Dharma. Through practical teaching strategies, curriculum planning and critical discussion, the course supported teachers in delivering engaging and culturally sensitive lessons that encourage philosophical enquiry, religious literacy and a deeper understanding of Dharmic traditions.

  22 Oct 2025

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered a professional development course for secondary school teachers, focusing on effective strategies for developing the knowledge, skills and confidence required for students to successfully complete their GCSE Religious Studies Non Exam Assessment (NEA). The course explored approaches to teaching independent research, critical analysis, evaluation, ethical reasoning and the construction of coherent, evidence based arguments. Emphasis was placed on practical classroom strategies, scaffolding student learning and supporting the development of transferable academic skills, enabling teachers to prepare students for the demands of independent enquiry and assessment.

  22 Oct 2025

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered a public short course exploring complex ethical dilemmas, controversial moral questions and taboo subjects within contemporary society. The course encouraged critical thinking, philosophical enquiry and open discussion, challenging participants to examine established moral frameworks, question societal norms and engage with diverse ethical perspectives in a thoughtful and intellectually rigorous environment.

  25 Sep 2025 鈥� 20 Oct 2025

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered a professional development course for secondary school teachers, focusing on developing subject knowledge, pedagogical confidence and effective approaches to teaching Buddhism within the Religion, Values and Ethics (RVE) curriculum. The course explored key Buddhist teachings, philosophical concepts, ethical principles and religious practices, emphasising the diversity of Buddhist traditions and lived religious experience. Particular attention was given to challenging common misconceptions, avoiding oversimplification and ensuring accurate, inclusive and academically rigorous representations of Buddhist beliefs and practices. Through practical teaching strategies, curriculum planning and critical discussion, the course supported teachers in delivering engaging and thought provoking lessons that promote philosophical enquiry, ethical reasoning, religious literacy and a deeper understanding of Buddhist thought and traditions.

  17 Sep 2025

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered an introductory public short course exploring fundamental questions in political philosophy, key thinkers and major traditions of political thought. The course introduced participants to central concepts including justice, liberty, equality, power, authority and political obligation, examining the philosophical foundations of political systems and ideologies. Through accessible teaching, critical discussion and philosophical enquiry, participants were encouraged to evaluate competing political perspectives, challenge established assumptions and develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between individuals, society and the state.

  11 Feb 2025 鈥� 4 Mar 2025

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered an introductory public short course exploring fundamental philosophical questions, key thinkers and major traditions of philosophical thought. The course introduced participants to core concepts in ethics, metaphysics, epistemology and the philosophy of religion, encouraging critical thinking, logical reasoning and intellectual enquiry. Through accessible teaching and structured discussion, participants developed the confidence to engage with complex philosophical ideas, critically evaluate arguments and reflect on questions concerning knowledge, existence, morality and the human condition.

  13 Jan 2025 鈥� 10 Feb 2025

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

2024

• Collaboratively designed and delivered an interdisciplinary public short course in partnership with academic staff from Philosophy, Ethics and Religion and Criminology. The course explored serial killing through philosophical, ethical, psychological and criminological perspectives, examining questions of morality, human behaviour, criminal responsibility and societal responses to extreme violence. Encouraged critical thinking, interdisciplinary discussion and informed engagement with complex and challenging subject matter.

  13 Nov 2024 鈥� 4 Dec 2024

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

• Designed and delivered a professional development course for secondary school teachers, exploring effective approaches to integrating political philosophy, contemporary political issues and democratic values into the Religion, Values and Ethics (RVE) curriculum. The course examined the relationship between religion, ethics and politics, providing teachers with practical pedagogical strategies for addressing complex and potentially controversial political questions in an inclusive, balanced and intellectually rigorous manner. Emphasis was placed on developing students' critical thinking, ethical reasoning, political literacy and ability to engage respectfully with diverse perspectives. Through practical classroom activities, curriculum planning and structured discussion, the course supported teachers in fostering informed, reflective and critically engaged learner

  7 Nov 2024

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

2023

• The Welsh-medium launch of the National Centre for Religious Education in Wales was held at the 乐播传媒 stall at the Llyn and Eifionydd National Eisteddfod 2023. Joshua Andrews and I presented as co-directors of the Centre. Interesting contributions were given by Emilia Johnson, Daniel Latham, Modlen Lynch, and Natasha Roberts, in addition to a fascinating discussion with Kristoffer Hughes, the Chief of the Anglesey Druid Order. We were also able to announce that the first Honorary Fellow of the Centre is the National Poet for Wales, Hanan Issa.

  6 Aug 2023

  Activity: Types of Public engagement and outreach - Public lecture/debate/seminar (Contributor)

• A specialist course designed to support early career teachers in developing their subject knowledge and pedagogical approaches to teaching Dharmic religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism, within the secondary Religious Education curriculum. Focused on effective curriculum planning, inclusive teaching strategies, accurate representation of religious beliefs and practices, and building confidence in delivering engaging, academically rigorous lessons.

  5 Jun 2023 鈥� 23 Jun 2023

  Activity: Participation in Academic workshop, seminar, course (Speaker)

2018:聽 拢75,000, Corporate Grant, All Saints Educational Trust.

2022:聽 拢85,000, Corporate Grant Award. All Saints Educational Trust.

2024:听 拢30, 451, Bangor Impact Award.

2024: 拢20,000, St Marys Educational Trust聽

2024:听 拢26,671, Culham St Gabriel's Award.

2025: 拢4,500, Go Wales聽

Administrative Roles

• Director of Student Engagement - Current聽
• Admissions Tutor (Philosophy, Ethics and Religion; Politics) - Current聽
• School Liaison Officer - Former
• Senior Tutor - Former
• Welcome Week Coordinator - Former聽

Recognition and Awards

• 2017:听Postgraduate Teacher of the Year, 乐播传媒 Student-Led Teaching Awards
• 2019:听Student Engagement Award, 乐播传媒 Student-Led Teaching Awards
• 2023:听Student Voice Award, 乐播传媒 Student-Led Teaching Awards
• 2023: 乐播传媒 Teaching Fellowship
• 2024:听Teacher of the Year听础飞补谤诲, 乐播传媒 Student-Led Teaching Awards
• 2024: Student Voice Award,聽乐播传媒 Student-Led Teaching Awards聽
• 2025:听Dissertation Supervisor of the Year 聽乐播传媒 Student-Led Teaching Awards
• 2025: Student Voice Award, 乐播传媒 Student-Led Teaching Award聽