CFP: The Syntax and Semantics of Formalisations in Philosophy

Conference Overview

We are pleased to invite submissions for the conference The Syntax and Semantics of Formalisations in Philosophy, to be held at LMU Munich on 27-28 June 2025. This event will explore the relationship between formal methods and philosophical inquiry, focusing on the challenges, debates, and implications of formalising philosophical concepts.

The conference will feature four keynote talks and eight contributed presentations mainly across three main topics:

1. The Feasibility and Challenges of Formalising Philosophy: This theme examines the adequacy of formal methods in capturing the nuances of philosophical ideas, identifying common challenges such as potential oversimplification and loss of depth, and exploring the relationships between terms and concepts within formal systems.
2. Pros and Cons of Using Formalisations in Philosophy: This topic addresses the ongoing discussion regarding the value of formal methods in philosophy, highlighting their benefits, including enhanced precision and clarity, alongside the limitations imposed by formal systems, such as the risk of diminishing the richness of philosophical discourse.
3. Conceptual Pluralism and Choosing the Right Formalisation: This theme recognises the diversity of formal methods and evaluates the criteria for selecting the most appropriate approaches for philosophical inquiry, considering the intended applications and goals of formalisation.

We welcome contributions that provide original insights into these and related topics. Historical approaches or comparative studies across different philosophical schools are also encouraged.

Keynote Speakers

•  Catarina Dutilh Novaes (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam)
•  Georg Brun (University of Bern)
•  Sven Ove Hansson (Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm)
•  Anna Brożek (University of Warsaw)

Submission Guidelines

We invite abstracts of up to 500 words, excluding references, which should clearly present the main argument and its relevance to the conference topics. Submissions will undergo a blind peer-review process.

Please submit your anonymised abstract by 31 December 2024 through the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/CwK6QPvBDHfyHgtaA

Notifications of acceptance or rejection will be sent out by 15 March 2025.

We warmly invite submissions from scholars from underrepresented and minority groups in philosophy.

We are looking forward to receiving your submissions and hope to welcome you in Munich for a stimulating and collaborative exchange of ideas.

Contact: [email protected]