James McCarty 

James W. McCarty is an interdisciplinary scholar whose research sits at the intersections of Peace Studies and Christian Ethics. In particular, he is interested in the ways that social forces shape our moral lives and the ways that moral agency is exercised toward social transformation in the everyday lives of those most negatively impacted by those social forces. He researches these dynamics in social and political practices such as peacebuilding, truth and reconciliation commissions, nonviolent social change, and racial justice and human rights activism. He has also written about the theological ethics of Martin Luther King Jr. and Desmond Tutu. His essays have appeared in journals of theology, ethics, and law.

In addition to his research, McCarty is a minister and activist. He has worked in congregational and campus ministries in Washington, Georgia, and California. He has also been a restorative justice, transformative justice, and conflict transformation practitioner in the United States and East Africa. Particular peace and justice practices in which he has both practical and research expertise include peacemaking circles, nonviolent direct action, truth and reconciliation commissions, and organizational change regarding issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism.

McCarty is a past co-convener of the Asian and Asian American Working Group of the Society of Christian Ethics and is a general editor of the book series The Business of Modern Life. Prior to coming to BU, he held administrative and teaching positions at Emory University, Seattle University, and the University of Washington.

He teaches courses in conflict transformation, restorative justice, peacebuilding, and community organizing. In addition, he administers the Certificate in Religion and Conflict Transformation in collaboration with the Boston Theological Interreligious Consortium.

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