CfP: Innovation or Aberration? Science, Technology and Historical Meanings of Failure
The
2017 CSTHA biennial conference will be held November 3–5 at King’s
University College in London, Ontario. The Program Committee invites
papers addressing this year’s conference theme: “Innovation or Aberration? Science, Technology and Historical Meanings of Failure.”
Recognizing
that 2017 is a year of celebrating Canada’s many achievements and
innovations, we welcome papers dedicated to the messy historical
processes that provide the back story to such successes — a context that
is often filled with numerous missteps, wrong turns, and even failures
that official narratives of innovation often do not completely convey.
Our conference will be guided by several questions: Why do some
technologies thrive while others fail? When can a technology be labeled a
“success”? How do social and cultural factors influence scientific,
medical, or technical inquiries? Topics may include, but are not limited
to: technological failure or “failed” technologies; organizational
culture; futuristic promises; scientific or medical hubris; structural
disaster; consumer trends; and ethics.
We welcome proposals for
both individual and thematic sessions, in English and/or French, on any
topic related to the history of Canadian science, technology, and
medicine in Canada. We particularly encourage papers addressing this
year’s theme of “Innovation or Aberration?”
Individual proposals
must include a title, an abstract of about 150 words, and as short
resume for the presenter(s). Session proposals must include a title, a
brief summary of the theme, titles and abstracts for each paper, and a
short resume of each speaker. Innovative methods of presentation, such
as those adopting a PechaKucha style, are encouraged. Posters can also
be presented and will be available for the duration of the conference.
Proposals from students will be particularly welcomed.
The deadline for submissions is 30 June 2017.
King’s University College is a liberal arts university affiliated with
Western University in London, Ontario. Located in southwestern Ontario,
London boasts a charming downtown core, vibrant nightlife, scenic nature
trails, and is home to many historical sites and museums.
Please see https://cstha-ahstc.ca/conference-colloque-2017/
for more information on submitting papers or registration. Presenters
at this conference must be members of CSTHA. To become a member or to
renew your membership, visit: https://cstha-ahstc.ca/membership-adhesion/. If you have any questions, please email: cstha.ahstc.conf@gmail.com.
Contact Info:
Canadian Science and Technology HIstorical Association
Dorotea Gucciardo
Contact Email: cstha.ahstc.conf@gmail.com