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James Smith
Professor of Philosophy at Calvin College; Editor, Comment magazine; Author
James K.A. Smith is a prominent Canadian-American philosopher, currently serving as a Senior Fellow at Cardus, a think tank focused on the renewal of North American social architecture. He also holds the position of editor of Comment magazine, which aims to engage the public in discussions about culture and faith.123
Educational Background
Smith was born on October 9, 1970, in Embro, Ontario. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Waterloo and Emmaus Bible College. He earned his Master of Philosophy in philosophical theology from the Institute for Christian Studies in 1995 and subsequently received his PhD from Villanova University in 1999.24
Academic and Professional Career
In addition to his role at Cardus, Smith is a Professor of Philosophy at Calvin University, where he holds the Gary & Henrietta Byker Chair in Applied Reformed Theology & Worldview. His academic interests include philosophical theology, continental philosophy, hermeneutics, postmodernism, and the philosophy of social sciences.124 Smith has authored several influential books, including:
- Who's Afraid of Postmodernism? (2006)
- Desiring the Kingdom (2009)
- You Are What You Love: The Spiritual Power of Habit (2016)
- Awaiting the King: Reforming Public Theology (2017)
- The Nicene Option: An Incarnational Phenomenology (2021)
He is also recognized for his contributions to popular writing in various prestigious publications such as Christianity Today, The New York Times, and USA Today.12
Personal Life
Smith resides in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with his wife Deanna. They have four adult children and are active members of Sherman Street Christian Reformed Church.1
Through his work, Smith has become an influential public intellectual and cultural critic, known for bridging the gap between academia and broader societal discussions.24

