Asher Pascal Johnson

About Asher Pascal Johnson

I was born in Boulder, Colorado but most recently resided in Southeast Tennessee, obtaining my Bachelor of Arts in Classics and Political Science in 2022 from Lee University. I pursued and completed a Master’s in Ancient Philosophy in Athens, Greece, through a collaboration between four well-known Greek universities, hosted by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. My thesis examined the political-metaphysical framework of Plotinus’ philosophy. Now, at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies in Bologna, Italy, I dedicate my time to learning Middle Eastern politics and Arabic. My philosophic interests have fundamentally shaped my desire to pursue a future career in diplomacy. I hope to play a role in shaping policy that not only improves health and wealth but also establishes productive meaning and purpose for society; that invokes a vision for a brighter future, instilling within each person the duty they have towards that future. Throughout my studies, I have travelled extensively, living in both Cologne and Athens. I picked up a working knowledge of German and Greek, as well as a survivor’s knowledge in Czech and Albanian. I plan to reserve much of my free time in Bologna to learning Italian. I also enjoy long runs. Despite now studying International Affairs, I still love to read philosophical works, albeit now largely political theory. This fascination with fundamental processes and human psychology along with my experiences of living abroad has led me to hope for the building of a career in diplomacy. Philosophy often asks, what is the good life, and how does one attain it? In response comes a great variety of answers, through which not only the philosopher deciphers, but also the policy maker. I love this intellectual activity, regularly engaging in humble dialogue about the common good. Satisfaction may be found through conversation, however, fulfillment ought to be found in the making and practicing of that good life, to which I heartily look forward.

Experience

1. Masters Candidate

   Johns Hopkins School Of Advanced International Studies Sais

   Aug 2024 — Present · Bologna, IT

   This includes work with the Bologna Institute of Policy Research and research assistance to Dr. Nina Hall.

Education

• Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS)

  Master's degree, International Relations and Affairs

• Lee University

  Bachelor's degree, Classics and Political Science

• National & Kapodistrian University of Athens

  Master's degree, Ancient philosophy

• University of Patras

  Master's degree, Ancient Philosophy