Peter Baron ’23 is now pursuing a dual-degree program at Georgetown University.For Peter Baron ’23, education is more than acquiring knowledge — it’s a journey of exploration and purpose. Just a year after graduating, he is pursuing a dual-degree program at Georgetown University, combining a juris doctor with a master’s in philosophy. His studies align with his overarching question: Are socioeconomic inequities inevitable?
At Fairfield, Baron designed his own major through the Individually Designed Major program, with mentorship from faculty like David Crawford, PhD, and Scott Lacy, PhD. Giving credit to Fairfield’s supportive professors and Jesuit values for fostering his intellectual curiosity and guiding his path, he said, “Fairfield helped me sharpen my curiosity. Professors were always willing to engage deeply with questions I had.”
His academic journey took shape alongside his writing. While a junior, Baron published his first book, If Only We Knew: How Ignorance Creates and Amplifies the Greatest Risks Facing Society. Now he’s writing a second book, tentatively titled From Competition to Cooperation, which envisions a societal shift from domination to collaboration.
Baron’s commitment to social change influenced his extracurricular activities: he led the Social Justice Book Club, hosted events at the Quick Center, and organized interdisciplinary panels on systemic inequities. These experiences allowed him to apply his philosophical inquiry to real-world issues.
Georgetown’s Jesuit ethos complements his Fairfield foundation, reinforcing values like cura personalis (care for the whole person) and being a “person for others.” These principles guide Baron’s goal of creating a more equitable world. “I want to help communities envision a social order where collective flourishing enables individual growth,” he said.
Beyond his studies and writing, Baron has explored personal growth through poetry, art, and even skateboarding. “I strive for the magis—always growing and learning in new ways,” he shared.
Though unsure if he’ll pursue a traditional legal career, Baron’s vision for the future is clear. In five to ten years, he sees himself as a writer and community visionary, connecting with those most affected by inequities. He aims to amplify their voices and collaborate on transformative solutions.
Baron highlights his meditation practice, which he’s maintained for more than three years, among his proudest accomplishments. “Meditation has taught me compassion and self-awareness, helping me engage deeply with others and my work,” he said. He’s also proud of the launch of his new think tank for social visionaries, creatives, and polemics; “The Cooperative World” can be found at thecooperativeworld.com.
Baron remains connected to Fairfield through friendships and mentorships and hopes to return to campus in the future. His advice for current students? “Find what you’re curious about, ask good questions, and pursue your interests with joy.”
