Call for papers

SPACTION
Spaces in action, actions in space

International Conference
University of Palermo, November 14th, 15th, 16th, 2014

How do we define space? How do we define action? During this conference, rather than thinking of them separately, we would like to consider space and action jointly, starting with the ways in which they appear to limit or enhance one other. We ask ourselves and the participants the following questions: how are space and action expressed/structured in relation to one another? In what way is an action situated in a given space, thereby orienting it, and to what extent can a type of space contain, condition and develop an action? The idea is to combine the reflections derived from the spatial turn with the reflections of those who work specifically on the definition of agency. Participants are encouraged to allow the perspectives to interact freely, using the approach, format and tools that they deem appropriate. In addition to the contribution of anthropology (on space, daily life, language, etc.), we consider the analytical models deriving from linguistics, geography, cultural studies, textual semiotics and cultural semiotics to be indispensable. Both theoretical papers and case studies are welcome. By way of example, below is a list of potential research topics:

Space and image/imagination
Space and power/knowledge
Space and places/non-places
Space and languages
Space and landscape
Space and agency
Space and subjective positioning
Space and fieldwork
Space and inclusion/exclusion
Space and textualisation
Space and temporal/aspectual dimension
etc.

Keynote speaker:
Carlo Severi (E.H.E.S.S., Paris)

Organisation:
Department of Cultures and Societies
University of Palermo
Viale delle Scienze, 90128, Palermo, Italy

Proposal submission and information:
Matteo Meschiari (matmeschiari@gmail.com)
Stefano Montes (montes.stefano@tiscalinet.it)

Practical Information:
Deadline for paper proposal submission: October 5th, 2014.
Proposal summary and title: 250-300 words.
Duration of paper presentation: 25 minutes.
Conference languages: Italian, French and English.
Participation in the conference is free of charge. Travel, lodging and meals will be at the participants’ expense.
The conference proceedings will be published.