Deadline 30 May 2026

The conference will be held from 1 to 3 December 2026 and is organized jointly by the Centre for Comparative Studies of Civilisations and Spiritualities (Fondazione Giorgio Cini), The Centre for History of Hermetic Philosophy and Related Currents – HHP (University of Amsterdam), the Center for the Study of World Religions (Harvard Divinity School), and the Centre for Environmental Humanities – NICHE (Ca’ Foscari University of Venice).

This conference will begin by examining how religious traditions have historically been connected to the care of both the body and the soul. We will discuss religious rituals, practices, dietary norms, and activities that promote not only graceful aging but also spiritual purification. Secondly, the conference will consider how aging societies influence religious beliefs and practices. Thirdly, we will address how religions accompany individuals through the process of dying. Finally, we will examine emerging religious and quasi-religious movements that challenge the very concept of death, proposing transhumanist approaches to life extension.

Abstracts and Texts

Abstracts up to 300 words, accompanied by a short CV, should be submitted in English by the 30th of May to [email protected]. A notification of acceptance will be forwarded by the 15th of June.

Timetable

The call for papers is open from 3 April 2026.
Abstracts (300 words maximum) and CVs to be received by 30 May 2026.
Notifications of acceptance will be given by 15 June 2026.
The conference will be held from 1 to 3 December 2026.