Conferences & Остраннeние: Shortchanging Topos and Ourselves

Abstract

What is a conference for? What are its design considerations? What are the trade-offs between virtual and terrestrial meetings? Within these larger frame questions, this essay looks only at the following argument:

The first critical step in research is the hypothesis—the novel idea to be explored. This step typically requires the mysterious phenomena of an intuitive leap of mind. Fertile soil for that leap is one of the most valuable affordances a conference can provide. Potential generative power lies within topos (place) and остраннeние (estrangement). They have been overlooked in discussions about conference design of all types. Cutting access to these deeper physical and intellectual roots reduces our ability to think new thoughts.

Put them back in.