"Beyond Reification: Critical Theory and the Challenge of Praxis," John Cabot University, Rome, May 21-23, 2008.

The conference will examine the importance and the developments of the Frankfurt School by addressing both the philosophical tradition of the early stages of Critical Theory – and in particular the works of Walter Benjamin, Theodor W. Adorno, Max Horkheimer and Herbert Marcuse – as well as the application of their theories to our contemporary society. In order to reflect the wide range of topics addressed by Critical Theory, the conference will cover different aspects of philosophical reflection on politics, aesthetics, sociology, technology, literature and any other relevant field of study. During the sessions, each speaker will have one hour, with 30-40 minutes for presentation, followed by 20-30 minutes of discussion. All presentations will be made in English. Keynote speakers:

• Andrew Cutrofello, Loyola University Chicago
• Andrew Feenberg, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver
• Alessandro Ferrara, University of Rome, Tor Vergata
• David Ingram, Loyola University Chicago
• Martin Matustik, Purdue University
• Hugh Miller, Loyola University Chicago
• Stefano Petrucciani, University of Rome, La Sapienza
• Francesco Saverio Trincia, University of Rome, La Sapienza

If you are interested in presenting a paper, please submit a 1-2 page abstract by January 15, 2008 (including name, institutional affiliation if any, and mailing address). Abstracts should be submitted by email. Decisions regarding the program will be made by February, 2008. The presented papers will be published in a volume dedicated to the conference. To submit an abstract, or for more information, contact: Prof. Stefano Giacchetti Ludovisi – sgiacchetti@johncabot.eduTel: (+39) 06-81905467.

Click here for last year's conference program.