Workshop - Hermann Herlinghaus: The "Pharmakon" - Concept Figure, Image of Transgression, and Practice

The „Pharmakon“

Concept Figure, Image of Transgression, and Practice

Organized by Hermann Herlinghaus, FRIAS

We would like to reflect on the complex semantics, and narrative and imaginary trajectories of the term „pharmakon“ (in Greek: ‚medicine’ / ‚poison’ / ‚philter’), and the ways it can be addressed from diverse vantage points. The workshop format is intended to allow for the articulation and discussion of associative scenarios in relation to the „pharmakon,“ rather than the deployment of a rigid academic discourse. Our reflection may span etymological and genealogical issues, as well as different narratives of reimagination. It may, at the same time, relate to threshold spaces where artistic practice, literary investigation, cultural analysis, and philosophical inquiry meet with anthropological, pharmacological, or neuroscientific concerns, as well as with specific (healing) practices.

Jacques Derrida’s  text „La pharmacie de Platon“ is one possible reference point; however, the workshop attempts to set a wider, and heterogeneous framework for reflection. Such perspective may include, prominently, the concept of „Rausch“ (intoxication / ecstasis) and its contradictory status in modern epistemology, literary and art history, and cultural and social practice. It may also address the numerous scenarios – transatlantic and European, local and global, artistic, anthropological and pharmacological – within which psychoactive / mind-altering substances have made up for one of the most ubiquitous and ambivalent phenomena in modern life. Aesthetic reflection, paradoxical thinking, specific case studies, and inquiries stemming from medicine and the natural sciences are equally welcome. Conference language will be English.

Program

In connection with this event a breathwork- workshop with Bo Wahlström will take place on June 14 and 15, 2014, at FRIAS. More information.