Title: Towards Re-Enchantment: Psychedelics, Mysticism, Reimagining Critical Theory Symposium
Join us for “Towards Re-Enchantment: Psychedelics, Mysticism, Re-imagining Critical Theory,” a symposium that explores the intersection of psychedelics and mysticism in the context of critical theory. The symposium is a continuation of a set of similar conversations over the course of the year in graduate and faculty working groups exploring methodological and epistemological challenges and possibilities inaugurated by psychotropic mystical experiences in ways of knowing. At its heart, the project returns to the emancipatory aim of critical theory, imbued with mystical force, to ask how states of altered consciousness and ineffable experience facilitated by psychedelics may reimagine the work of humanist critique. Featured guests include Erika Gagnon (Ceremonial Leader & Wisdom Keeper), Mayanthi Fernando (UC Santa Cruz), Christian Greer (Stanford University), and Aidan Seale-Feldman (University of Notre Dame).
Coffee and refreshments will be served at 10 AM. The symposium will begin at 11 AM with a ceremony led by Erika Gagnon, followed by a catered lunch roundtable and then a series of informal conversations open to the public between speakers from a range of disciplines including anthropology, critical theory, religious studies, American studies, and more. A reception will follow at 4:30 PM and is open to all CT affiliates and students.
Sponsored by the UC Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics and the Program in Critical Theory as part of the Psychedelics in Society and Culture initiative funded by Flourish Trust. Co-sponsored by the Townsend Center for the Humanities.