CFP: Eros across time and tradition

Call for Papers: PGSA Annual Graduate Student Conference 2026 – “Eros”

The Philosophy Graduate Student Association at the University of Kentucky invites submissions for its annual graduate student–led conference, to be held February 20–21, 2026, on the theme “Eros.” This year, we seek to explore Eros not merely as bodily desire, but as a profound philosophical and cultural force shaping thought, art, and spirituality.

We welcome paper proposals that engage with Eros across traditions and disciplines, including—but not limited to—philosophy, literature, religious studies, and comparative cultural studies. Submissions may explore questions such as:

• How does Eros function in Plato’s dialogues and other philosophical texts?

• In what ways do Persian poets (Hafez, Sa’adi, Rumi, etc.) depict Eros as a bridge between the human and the divine?

• How does the Song of Songs articulate Eros and the divine, and how does it differ from other traditions?

• What are the intersections, tensions, or harmonies between philosophical, poetic, and religious understandings of Eros?

• The relationship and tension between the physical body and the metaphysical soul in expressions of love.

• Attempts to unify or find common ground between these diverse traditions.

Format: Accepted papers will be presented during individual sessions, followed by a collaborative, symposium-style discussion modeled on Plato’s Symposium, in which speakers and audience members engage in dialogue.

Submission Guidelines:

• Abstracts of up to 300 words should be submitted by December 1st, 2025. 

• Include your name, affiliation, and email address.

Submissions and inquiries should be sent to [email protected]. Graduate students from all disciplines are encouraged to apply.

We look forward to exploring the many dimensions of Eros with you!