Biennial History of Astronomy Workshop - ND XII June 24

Biennial History of Astronomy Workshop - ND XII June 24–28, 2015

Conference Theme: Astronomy and Authority

Authority is a perennial and perplexing issue in astronomy. For the Twelfth Biennial History of Astronomy Workshop, we invite submissions that explore the theme of astronomy and authority. Who controls the production and dissemination of astronomical information? What are the purposes for which that information is used? What sorts of evidence and influence are exercised in establishing astronomical theory and practice? What roles do instruments and wealth play in matters of astronomical authority? What are the ways in which astronomical investigation reflects philosophical, cultural, or political differences between competing traditions? How is astronomical authority undermined? As in previous years, we expect that the theme can encompass a number of different time periods and geographical locations. Proposals that directly address the theme will receive preferential treatment.

Call for Proposals

Proposals are now being accepted for both papers and sessions. Single papers will probably have to be 15-20 minutes in length, depending upon the total number of submissions. Organized sessions, with multiple papers addressing a particular question or theme, can contain papers of longer length, but must incorporate significant time for discussion; sessions typically run 1.5 to 2 hours and will have 3 to 5 presenters.

Proposals for papers should include a title and a one-paragraph abstract. Session proposals should identify presenters who have agreed to come as well as titles and one-paragraph abstracts for each presenter. Nontraditional sessions, such as hands-on teaching sessions, are acceptable.

We especially encourage proposals from graduate students and recent PhDs.

Proposal Deadline

Proposals, including a one-page CV for all presenters, should be sent to Liz Hamm at elizabeth.hamm@stmarys-ca.edu by 15 March 2015. All submissions will be shared with the organizing committee: Stephen Case, Matt Dowd, Jacqueline Feke, and Liz Hamm.

Notification of acceptance will be made by April.

(download the workshop announcement here).