A festschrift honoring the work of Barry Smith is being published by Palgrave-McMillan. The collection of essays, entitled the The Theory and Practice of Ontology, provides close examination of ontology and the work of Professor Smith, one of the most prolific philosophers of the modern day.

In this book numerous scholars who have collaborated with Smith explore the various disciplines in which the impact of his work has been felt over the breadth of his career, including biology, computer science and informatics, cognitive science, economics, genetics, geography, law, neurology, and philosophy itself. While offering in-depth perspectives on ontology, the book also expands upon the breadth of Smith’s influence.

With insights from renowned and influential scholars from many different countries, this book is an informative and enlightening celebration of all Smith has contributed to numerous academic schools of thought.

The contributors include luminaries such as  Archille Varzi,  Peter Simons,  Robert Casati and  Kevin Mulligan. Other prominent contributors include  Berit Brogaard,  Mariam Thalos  and  Ingvar Johansson.

The book investigates the many ways in which the career of Professor Smith has impacted numerous academic disciplines. By collating the works of numerous international scholars who have worked with Smith, the book provides readers with an up-to-date and accessible investigation of the progress and influence of ontology.

The editor, Leo Zaibert,  a UB Philosophy alum, is Professor of Philosophy and Department Chair at Union College, USA. He has been visiting professor in several American and European universities, and serves on the editorial boards of the leading journals in his fields. His work centers around our responses to wrongdoing: blame, punishment, revenge, and forgiveness. He is the author of over eighty publications, including Five Ways Patricia can Kill her Husband: A Theory of Intentionality and Blame (2005) and Punishment and Retribution (2006).