The 12th Annual Conference of EATS will take place at Jagiellonian University in Kraków, 8-10 April 2015. The main theme is (In)Visible Taiwan, which addresses issues about Taiwan and the field of Taiwan Studies that may appear paradoxical from interdisciplinary perspectives.
For example, while democratisation is arguably the most significant development in modern Taiwan, what are the hidden challenges that need to be identified and resolved? While some may praise Taiwan’s economic power, others may be disappointed in the lack of global recognition of Taiwanese brands. Is the perceived ‘problem’ a real problem? If so, why and are there any sensible solutions? Given the difficult international situation that Taiwan faces, how should we put Taiwan’s effort in claiming an international presence – politically and culturally, officially and unofficially – into context? How may we evaluate appropriately Taiwan’s (in)visibility? Moreover, how have the contributions of artists, writers, filmmakers and various cultural and creative workers sustained, enriched and articulated Taiwan’s vibrant and multi-faceted cultures? How may the scholarly communities of Taiwan Studies further engage with different disciplines and advance our understanding of Taiwan?
The organisers welcome submission of individual abstracts which tackle the main theme of the conference from all disciplines of social sciences and arts and humanities. They also welcome submission of panels (3–4 abstracts per panel) which consider the issues of (in)visibility within or outside Taiwan from the viewpoint of a specific subject/topic. Furthermore, EATS will organize a MA panel for students to practice their presentation skills and to receive critical feedback. The MA panel is not confined by the theme of the conference, although it should be relevant to the broadly defined field of Taiwan Studies.
The deadline for submission is 31 October 2014.