Barry Allen

Barry Allen, Philosopher and Professor at McMaster University (1957 – 2025) Barry Allen, philosopher, Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Philosophy at McMaster University, Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, died on November 9, 2025, in Hamilton, Ontario. Born on June 14, 1957, in Ogden, Utah, to Gilbert and Adria Allen, Barry studied under the philosopher Richard Rorty at Princeton University, and devoted 39 years to teaching, research, mentoring students, and committee work at McMaster, continuing his engagement until his final days. Barry was a dedicated mentor, attracting students from around the world to work with him and supporting them with compassion. Reserved in expression, his devotion to the colleagues and students revealed a gentle and kind soul to those who knew him well. He found simple pleasures in jazz and red wine each evening, and the company of his beloved Sheltie dog, whom he affectionately called "little brother." At the time of passing, Barry was completing a manuscript, All Our Relations, a book on philosophy and the First Nations of North America. His published works include Living in Time: The Philosophy of Henri Bergson, Empiricisms: Experience and Experiment from Antiquity to the Anthropocene, Striking Beauty: A Philosophical Look at the Asian Martial Arts, Vanishing Into Things: Knowledge in Chinese Tradition, Art and Design in Human Experience, Knowledge and Civilization, and Truth in Philosophy. He was deeply sustained throughout his life by the affection of family, friends, colleagues, students, and neighbors. In keeping with his wishes, no funeral or memorial will be held, and he will return to nature on a simple and eco-friendly path.  www.allenmortuaries.com