Deleuze2008: Call for papers

Deleuze2008, November 7th and 8th, Stavanger, Norway – Open port

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the publication of Difference and Repetition, this conference aims to enquire into the concept of Openness with regard to the philosophy of Gilles Deleuze.

Keynote speakers are Simon Duffy, Roland Faber, Graham Harman, Christian Kerslake, Daniel W. Smith and James Williams

The theme of the Open is touched upon in many ways throughout the writings of Deleuze. For example, in the early book on Hume there is the externality of relations. In the book on Bergson there is duration understood as the change that is substance, the multiplicity that divides only by changing in kind. Then, in the book on Nietzsche there is the eternal return, determined as the universal being of becoming. Furthermore, in the book on Spinoza there is the claim that substance must be unlimited. In Difference and Repetition there is the issue of reciprocal determination. In that same book, Deleuze also goes out in search of a difference that is not second, a difference that is first, having its own concept. These are all expressions that testify to the vital importance of Openness in Deleuze’s thought.

Shortly then, the intent of this conference is to subordinate the philosophy of Deleuze to the question of the Open in such a way that it reveals something of its essence.

There are various aspects of the Open. Possible topics for papers are:
· Metaphysics – the open-ended becoming of the world; any room for religiosity?
· Science – is deleuzian metaphysics a challenge to the sciences and/or vice versa?
· Ethics and politics – the assemblage theory of society; what if anything is immanent ethics?
· Art and sensation – sensational encounters.

Especially welcome are papers on Difference and Repetition, as well as on the assemblage theory of society.

Abstracts of no less than 500 words should be sent to deleuze2008@gmail.com. Please note that the deadline for submissions is extended to September 20th, 2008. Notification regarding acceptance will be made by the 3rd of October. A working paper should be submitted by October 24th. Please note that the delivery time for papers is thirty minutes.