The Function of Beauty: A Transdisciplinary Conference

updated:  Saturday, January 11, 2025 - 4:46am London Arts-Based Research Centre deadline for submissions:  Saturday, March 1, 2025 The Function of Beauty: A Transdisciplinary Conference “Beauty is not in the face; beauty is a light in the heart.” — K…
Ernie Stanton · 4 days ago · 2 minutes read

The Enchanting Allure of Beauty

The Role of Beauty in Our World

Beauty is an enigmatic concept that has captivated human minds for millennia. From ancient philosophers to modern thinkers, scholars have pondered the nature and significance of beauty.

“Beauty will save the world,” declared Fyodor Dostoevsky, while Plato believed that “in the presence of beauty, we are moved to contemplate the divine.” Beauty transcends cultures and disciplines, sparking insights and inspiring great works.

A Transdisciplinary Exploration

This conference invites experts, artists, and practitioners to join in a vibrant exploration of the function of beauty. By examining it through diverse lenses, including philosophy, psychology, sociology, the arts, and the sciences, we aim to unravel its profound impact on our lives.

Philosophical Inquiries

Key questions:

  • What is the purpose and meaning of beauty?
  • How do aesthetic theories shape our understanding of beauty?
  • Does beauty have ethical implications?

Psychological Perspectives

Areas of study:

  • The impact of beauty on well-being and emotions
  • The cognitive mechanisms of aesthetic appreciation
  • The interplay between attraction and unease in aesthetics

Sociocultural Aspects

Critical examinations:

  • The role of beauty in societal power dynamics
  • How different cultures define and value beauty
  • The political implications of beauty standards

Creative Interpretations

Artistic expressions:

  • The historical and contemporary uses of beauty in art
  • Experimental approaches to beauty in the avant-garde
  • Finding beauty in the ordinary and overlooked

Scientific Engagements

Innovative connections:

  • Evolutionary theories of beauty and attraction
  • The role of AI and technology in defining beauty
  • Exploring symmetry and patterns in natural and human-made forms

Environmental Reflections

Interdisciplinary perspectives:

  • The relationship between aesthetics and environmental conservation
  • Exploring beauty in chaos, destruction, and sustainable design
  • The ecological significance of beauty

Contemporary Challenges

Critical discussions:

  • The commodification of beauty and consumer culture
  • The impact of social media on perceptions of beauty
  • Speculating on the future of beauty in the Anthropocene

Join us for an intellectually stimulating conference that delves into the captivating world of beauty. We look forward to your contributions and insights as we explore the transformative power of beauty in all its multifaceted dimensions.