CFP: Kant on Dignity, Enlightenment, and Punishment: A Critical Examination

Conference Dates: 10-11 May 2024

Location: Regis University, Denver, CO (hybrid)

Description: Kant claims that every person has absolute intrinsic worth or value (i.e., dignity); and he also holds that we’re all rationally obligated to dare to think for ourselves (Sapere aude!) on all subjects of personal, moral, and sociopolitical significance (i.e., enlightenment): yet he also defends a legalistic, moralistic, and retributive theory of crime-&-punishment, including capital punishment. Are all of these doctrines consistent and coherent? If so, why? Or if not, why not? And how could any or all of these doctrines be creatively revised, updated, or replaced for contemporary and near-future application and use? This workshop will include presentations not only by scholars working in these areas but also by incarcerated students who are studying Kant’s views.

Submit a short abstract (250 words) to Professor Bryan Hall ([email protected]) by 31 January 2024. Notification of acceptance by 15 February 2024.

This conference is being held through the support of the Contemporary Kantian Philosophy Project, Regis University, and the North American Kant Society.