Lynne Tirrell

Lynne Tirrell is an American philosopher and Professor of Philosophy at the University of Connecticut, also affiliated with the Human Rights Institute. Her scholarly work primarily focuses on the philosophy of language, with a particular emphasis on the nature and consequences of hate speech and toxic speech. Tirrell investigates how linguistic practices shape social conditions that can lead to genocide and other forms of oppression. Her research, initially focused on the United States, expanded to include regions like Rwanda, examining the role of speech in historical events such as the Rwandan genocide. She has engaged with international tribunals on these matters. Tirrell's work also delves into feminist philosophy of language, arguing for the necessity of altering inherent male biases in English to allow for alternative worldviews. She has analyzed the work of figures like Catharine MacKinnon, supporting anti-pornography views while advocating for the protection of women's ability to articulate their experiences. Her research on metaphor explores interpretation and the concept of expressive commitment. Tirrell's academic career includes professorships at the University of Massachusetts, Boston, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, as well as visiting positions at other institutions. She also served as chair of the APA Committee on Public Philosophy. Her publications include numerous peer-reviewed papers, contributions to anthologies, and encyclopedia articles, notably on topics such as "Toxic Speech: Toward an Epidemiology of Discursive Harm."