CFP: Conflict: Causes, Chaos, and Resolutions

The Department of Classics at the University of Leeds is pleased to announce the 5th Annual Postgraduate Interdisciplinary Conference to be held on the 4th June 2014, Leeds.

Conflicts of all kinds, their Causes, the Chaos involved and its Resolutions have a profound impact on human society, and are the subject of much study in Classics, the Humanities and beyond. Even in its most traditional interpretation as a matter of violence and warfare, conflict is reflected directly and indirectly within almost every academic discipline. But the concept of conflict extends much further. It can also refer to conflicts within academia itself, and elsewhere. Not only do conflicting philosophies and methodologies impact on the pursuit and development of academic study, but conflicting social concepts and values are central to subjects such as gender studies and English. This conference aims to provide an in-depth interdisciplinary discussion of the multifaceted, and often divisive, concept of Conflict, including aspects such as:

•       Conflicting Ideas
•       The Impact of Conflict
•       War Theory
•       The Metamorphosis of Culture through Conflict
•       Comparative Receptions
•       De-constructing Society
•       Unexpected Resolutions
•       Turmoil of the Psyche
•       The Psychology of Warfare
•       Reflections of Conflict in Literature

Papers can address, but are certainly not limited to the above suggestions. Postgraduate scholars from Classics and beyond are invited to send an abstract of 250-300 words to [email protected] by the 1st of May. Presentation will be 20 minutes long and followed by 10 minutes of discussion.

The conference aims at an Interdisciplinary approach, allowing for conversation across departmental and institutional lines. The conference is also presented through the Classics department as part of the Legacies of War project in the University of Leeds. There may be travel bursaries available and a possible opportunity for publication.

Keynote speakers are Penny Goodman, who will be speaking on the study of conflict in academia, and Roger Brock, editor of The Journal of Hellenic Studies, will be speaking on abstracting and approaching journals for publication.

For any further information please email [email protected].