Richard Mohr

Richard Mohr (born 1947) is an American philosopher known for his work in the philosophy of law, ethics, and gay rights. He is a distinguished professor emeritus of philosophy at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Mohr received his B.A. from Drew University and his Ph.D. from Boston University. His research and writing have focused on issues of moral philosophy, particularly as they relate to sexual orientation and the philosophical foundations of equal rights.

He is perhaps best known for his advocacy of gay rights and his arguments against discrimination based on sexual orientation. He has written extensively on topics such as the moral permissibility of homosexuality, the nature of prejudice against homosexuals, and the importance of legal protections for gay and lesbian individuals. His work has been influential in shaping public discourse and legal arguments regarding LGBTQ+ equality.

Mohr's notable publications include "Gays/Justice: A Study of Ethics, Society, and Law" (1988, expanded edition 1996), a foundational text in gay and lesbian studies that explores the ethical and legal arguments for gay rights, dismantling common prejudices and misconceptions. He is also the author of "A More Perfect Union: Why Straight America Must Stand Up for Gay Rights" (1994), which argues for the importance of allyship in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality. His other works include "The Platonic Cosmology" (1985), "Gay Ideas: Outing and Other Controversies" (1992), and numerous articles in academic journals and anthologies.

Mohr's philosophical approach is often characterized by clarity, rigor, and a commitment to social justice. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of sexual ethics and the philosophical basis for equal rights for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation. His work remains highly relevant in contemporary discussions of LGBTQ+ rights and social justice.