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Call for Papers "Syncretism in South and Southeast Asia: Adoption and Adaptation" 2nd SSEASR Conference South and Southeast Asian Association for the Study of Culture and Religion (SSEASR) Mahidol University Mahachulalongkorn Royal Buddhist University Mahamakut Royal Buddhist University Bangkok (Thailand) 24-27 May 2007 __________________________________________________ Co-sponsored as a Regional Conference by International Association for the History of Religions (IAHR), Member of CIPSH, an affiliate organization of the UNESCO Since time immemorial, the region of South and Southeast Asia has played a pivotal role in carrying the traits of culture and religion not only amongst its own societies but also beyond. The basic carriers of such elements were Hinduism and Buddhism which took various routes (both land and sea) to reach the pre-modern Southeast Asia. Later on Islam and Christianity also entered the region and added lustre to the culture mosaic. The concept of syncretism in this area was not only visible in religious scenes but also in various spheres of socio-cultural life. As we know, the word religion in South and Southeast Asia goes beyond its general definition. With the widest scope of syncretism in every aspect, religion encompasses here every action of life: be it social customs, language and literature, art and architecture, polity, economics or commerce, performing arts and communication. The Institute of Language and Culture for Rural Development, Mahidol University, Thailand is pleased to host the 2nd SSEASR Conference on the very auspicious occasion where scholars and writers from various parts of the world are likely to join together with their academic presentation. Sub-themes 1. Ethnic Mosaic of South and Southeast Asia 2. Syncretic Systems in South and Southeast Asia 3. Language and Literature: Binding Force 4. Women and Religion 5. Symbolism( Art and Architecture), Communication and Religion 6. Education and Religious Studies 7. Faith and Survival: Diasporas from South and Southeast Asia 8. Polity, Trade and Religion 9. Religion: Peace, Violence and Dialogue 10. Tradition vis-à-vis Globalization 11. Religion, Health and Healing 12. Religion and Ecology Since this is the 2550th Anniversary of Buddhism, we particularly invite scholars and papers dealing with Buddhism. Participants are requested to submit research papers in English language on any of the relevant sub-themes. An Abstract of 250 words is expected, preferably by E-mail. A special symposium on Kingship and Religion would be held on the inaugural day. There would be an Exhibition of the Tangible and Intangible Cultural Heritage during the Conference, which would showcase the culture of South and Southeast Asia. A workshop on Science and Spirituality is also planned. We plan to have world-renowned plenary speakers on the religions of South and Southeast Asia from various parts of the world. The Organising Committee is also working on a Temple Tour of Bangkok and around. There is a plan to have a chartered flight to Cambodia for Angkor Vat, along with a visit to Phnom Penh, at a special price for the SSEASR delegates. Certain other programmes are also on the way which would be sent to those who pre-register for the Conference. The relevant registration amount can be sent to us by a bank draft or personal cheque payable to the Institute of Language and Culture for Rural Development, Mahidol University,Thailand and sent to us by post at the Conference Secretariat address given below. Submission of Abstract: February 15, 2006 Submission of Full Paper: April 15, 2007 Contact: Dr. Sophana Srichampa, Secretary General Chair, SSEASR Conference Organising Committee Institute of Language and Culture for Rural Development Mahidol University Phutthamonthon 4 Road Nakornpathom 73170 Thailand Tel: +66 (2) 800-2308-14 Fax: +66 (2) 800-2332 Email: [email protected] Web: http://www.sseasr.org __________________________________________________ InterPhil List Administration: http://interphil.polylog.org Intercultural Philosophy Calendar: http://cal.polylog.org

