University of Utah Political Science Professor Brent J. Steele Honored with Two Prestigious Awards

Dr. Steele’s research focuses on international ethics, a field that examines how ethical considerations influence the behaviors of international actors and how global contexts shape ethical political communities and outcomes. His work on Just War theory, the role of restraint in international relations, and alternative forms of accountability in global politics has made a significant impact on the discipline.

Dr. Steele is also the co-editor in chief of Global Studies Quarterly and has published extensively in leading academic journals such as Cooperation and Conflict, the Journal of International Political Theory, Review of International Studies, and the European Journal of International Studies. His most recent books include Vicarious Identity in International Relations (Oxford University Press, 2021), co-authored with Chris Browning and Pertti Joenniemi, and Restraint in International Politics (Cambridge University Press, 2019), which co-won the ISA Theory section book award for 2020.

The International Ethics section of the ISA recognizes outstanding scholars whose research has significantly advanced the study of international ethics. Recipients are selected by leaders within the ISA’s Section, Region, and Caucus divisions. This award recognizes his scholarly contributions, as well as his mentorship of early-career researchers and ongoing engagement with the ISA community.

The title of Distinguished Professor at the University of Utah is reserved for faculty members whose achievements exemplify the highest goals of scholarship and who have gained national and international recognition in their field. Honorees also demonstrate a strong commitment to teaching, as recognized by students and colleagues.

Reflecting on these honors, Dr. Steele shared, “I am honored and humbled by both of these awards. The University Distinguished Professor Award is the highest honor at our esteemed university, and I am particularly moved to follow in the footsteps of Professor Francis D. Wormuth, the only other political scientist to receive this distinction and whose Presidential Chair I now hold. The Distinguished Scholar Award in International Ethics is also incredibly meaningful to me, as many of my mentors and intellectual inspirations have previously received this award, and the International Ethics section has been a supportive and nurturing community for my own professional development for over two decades.”

Dr. Claudio Holzner, chair of the Department of Political Science, commended Dr. Steele’s scholarly achievements: “Dr. Brent Steele is a path-breaking scholar, innovative teacher, and dedicated mentor who is one of the leading voices in the study of ethics in international relations. He has published 10 books and edited volumes, and nearly 80 articles and book chapters. His most recent book, Restraint in International Politics, won a best book award from the International Studies Association. I am so happy he is receiving the recognition he deserves, which also elevates the national reputation of the Political Science Department and the University of Utah.”

As part of the ISA Distinguished Scholar Award, Dr. Steele will be honored in a special panel at the 2026 ISA annual meeting in Columbus, where leading scholars will discuss his contributions to the field.

These prestigious awards highlight Dr. Steele’s scholarship, dedication to teaching, and leadership within the academic community. The College of Social and Behavioral Science congratulates him on these well-deserved accolades.

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