CFP: MSU Graduate Student Philosophy Conference: Power, Oppression, and Social Change

The general aim of this conference is to broach philosophical frameworks of social criticism (especially those in the traditions of Critical Social Theory and Post-Structuralism) that illuminate structures of oppression in all of their complexity. This foremost includes analyses of power relations and structural and symbolic mechanisms of subjugation, and how they problematize capacities for critical reflection and social change. To motivate such analyses, we hope to consider questions such as:

-What are the roles of institutionalized social, cultural, and political norms in the inception and maintenance of social oppression?
-In what ways is social oppression guided by reductive accounts of rationality?
-How/where do we find the tools that allow us to articulate an individual and subsequent collective autonomy that engenders both critical reflection and a capacity to bring about practical social change?

Although all submissions relating to the general topic are welcome, we especially encourage submissions that approach the topic within fluid frameworks capable of intersecting social dynamics such as class, race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality.  

Submission Guidelines:

Please prepare papers for blind review and send them to [email protected]. Papers should not exceed 4000 words (there will be an allotted 20-25 minutes for each paper reading, plus 25-30 minutes for commentary and discussion). Please include an abstract of up to 250 words. Cover sheets should contain name, email address, and institutional affiliation. Submission deadline is January 11th, 2013. Notification of acceptance will be delivered no later than February 1st, 2013.