[14][15][16] He is also an author of the book Modern Epidemiology, described as “the standard textbook in all academic institutions for a long time to come… as a reference and encyclopedia.” [17] VanderWeele has published studies on religious service attendance and its relation to lowering mortality, depression, suicide, divorce, and improving many other outcomes.

In 2020, he received an honorary doctorate from the Catholic University of America for “ongoing efforts to serve vulnerable populations and develop a fuller understanding of the factors that contribute to human flourishing.”[27] VanderWeele’s research on well-being and on religion has been covered by the New York Times,[28] USA Today,[29] Washington Post,[30] Chicago Tribune,[31] TIME Magazine,[32] The Economist,[33] CBS,[34] and CNN.

[40] The amici curiae argued that there is no Constitutional right to same-sex marriage, concluding that, “State decisions reflecting the views of citizens about a matter as fundamental as the definition of marriage… must be left free to reconcile moral claims and interests rather than being compelled to accept the federal courts’ settlement of such delicate considerations.” [41] He has been an advocate for addressing issues of healing and prevention from childhood sexual abuse within the Catholic Church and in other religious and secular organizations.

This work has included the organization of an International Symposium on this topic,[42] and efforts to establish a United Nations World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence.

[43] VanderWeele is a frequent speaker at academic, community, and religious organizations, and has delivered keynote addresses at scientific conferences in the United States, Australia, Europe, Asia, and South America.