Dr. Dominic Johnson

Professor

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Biography

Dominic Johnson received his DPhil from the University of Oxford in evolutionary biology and his PhD from the University of Geneva in political science. He draws on multiple disciplines, focusing on the evolution and biology of human nature as they relate to international relations, conflict, and cooperation. His recent work includes the book 'Strategic Instincts: Adaptive Advantages of Cognitive Biases in International Politics' (Princeton University Press, 2020), where he argues that cognitive biases, often viewed as detrimental, can also provide adaptive heuristics that aid decision-making in international politics. His previous publications, such as 'God is Watching You: How the Fear of God Makes Us Human' (Oxford University Press, 2015) and 'Overconfidence and War: The Havoc and Glory of Positive Illusions' (Harvard University Press, 2004), explore the psychological aspects of human behavior in a global context. Currently, he serves as the Co-Director of the Oxford Martin School’s Natural Governance Programme, focusing on research related to evolution, foreign policy, global governance, human nature, and more.

Research Interests

Experience

Co-Director

— Present

Oxford Martin School • Oxford, England

Leads the Natural Governance Programme focusing on research at the intersection of ecology, governance, and human societal evolution.

Requirements for University of Oxford

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.7
IELTS
Listening
Required:7
Reading
Required:7
Writing
Required:7
Speaking
Required:7
Overall
Required:7.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:24
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:25
Total
Required:110
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Politics, International Relations, Economics, History, Law, Philosophy or Sociology
Application Checklist
  • Three academic references
  • Official transcripts
  • CV/Resume
  • Statement of Purpose (1,000 words)
  • Two academic essays (2,000 words each)
Specialization Notes

Department of Politics and International Relations - Higher Level English requirement.