CfA: ‘A Phenomenology of Virtuality?’ – 2020 Workshop in Santiago, Chile

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A reminder about the Call for Applications for a workshop on ‘A Phenomenology of Virtuality?’ 22 – 24 January 2020.

Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
22 – 24th January 2020

Dr Daniel O’Shiel
Postdoctoral Researcher, Instituto de Filosofía, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile.
[email protected] | www.danieloshiel.com

In a second of three workshops on virtuality, this one will concentrate on the question as to whether a phenomenology of virtuality is possible and, if so, what would it look like? With the high rise and influence of recent virtual technologies such as social media and online gaming, as well as new virtual, augmented and mixed reality (VR, AR and MR respectively) technologies, a phenomenology of virtuality and virtual technologies is becoming increasingly pressing if phenomenology is to keep up with many everyday experiential and societal developments. Here, although ‘the virtual’ and ‘virtuality’ are not common terms in classical (roughly Husserl to Merleau-Ponty) phenomenology, given its ambitious and ongoing programme it should nevertheless be able to account for such terms and experiences in detail.

With this in mind, abstracts (300-500 words) are welcome that either try to contribute to a general theory regarding a phenomenology of virtuality, or apply a phenomenological notion of virtuality to a particular case or set of phenomena, not least cases in today’s digital age.

Although in a series of three, it is by no means necessary to have attended the first (last January) nor to attend the third (January 2021) workshop. The format is for a small number of participants (8-12) to first present their own take on the issue, using texts of one’s choosing. Each participant will receive around 20-35 minutes to present, plus extra room for questions and discussion. The following day will then be seminar discussions around selected key texts (suggestions will be welcome). Finally, on the last day there will be a general concluding seminar where everyone can present their updated ideas based on the discussions and developments, as well as a final discussion.

Applications are welcome from all those in philosophy who are interested in the theme, as well as from related disciplines. Participants from out of town who do not have access to their own accommodation funding can be accommodated from Tuesday 21st to Saturday 25th January in modest accommodation near the workshop venue. There will also be welcome drinks (at each person’s expense) as well as an end-of-conference dinner (covered by the organiser).

To be considered please submit your abstract as well as a recent copy of your CV to [email protected] no later than 30 September 2019. Successful applicants will hear back promptly. If there are any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.