Confronting Universalities: Aesthetics and Politics under the Sign of Globalisation
September 24-26, 2008, Institute of Aesthetic Studies, University of Aarhus, Denmark
The symposium Confronting Universalities addresses the reappearance of the concept of universality in aesthetic and political theory, examining contemporary changes in the relation between aesthetics and politics in the light of globalisation.
The concept of universality is making a remarkable comeback in aesthetic and political theory. But the meaning of the word seems more contested than ever. Some denounce it as the conceptual equivalent of political totalitarianism. Some celebrate it as the foundation of communicative reason or by hailing the universal qualities of great art as an antidote to the political pragmatism of multiculturalism.
The aim of the symposium is to open up a discussion of how works of art in all forms and genres influence, shape, or confront the political realm in both theory and practice by way of the universal. See the call for papers.
Keynote speakers at the symposium are Professor Mieke Bal (Amsterdam), Professor Andrew Gibson (London), cultural critic, PhD Stefan Jonsson (Stockholm), and the Danish Art Organisation Das Beckwerk .
In continuation of the symposium a collection of articles will be published on Aarhus University Press under the title Universalities: Aesthetics and Politics in the Time of Globalization. Guidelines for submission of articles (pdf)
The registration fee is € 100 including a reception on the evening of the opening, light lunches and conference dinner Thursday night. See details on registration and payment . Participants will pay themselves for board and lodging as well as travelling expenses.