Self-deception in Ancient Philosophy

The phenomenon of self-deception introduces a host of philosophical and psychological problems. Their study, and the study of how they have been addressed in broader philosophical traditions, helps us gain a better understanding of our mind and the formation of our beliefs. Questions central to the philosophical discussion of self-deception may be divided into two kinds. On the one hand, conceptual questions regarding the definition of self-deception, and the understanding of its paradoxes. On the other hand, normative questions of whether self-deception is wrong, and whether the moral arguments against interpersonal deceiving apply to deceiving oneself.

The conference will focus on responses explicitly or implicitly articulated in the philosophical traditions of the ancient Western world. The aim is to provide a constructive forum to explore this rather neglected topic. Papers may focus on particular thinkers, individual texts, or broader traditions from the Pre-Socratics up to the Hellenistic Schools.

Interested researchers should send an abstract of 500-800 words to [email protected] until September 30, 2022. We will be able to provide meals and accommodation for speakers, but we cannot cover any travel expenses.