The conference on „The Useful Enlightenment: Theories, Practices and Representations of Usefulness in the Long Eighteenth Century“ will take place from 26 to 28 June 2025 at the Interdisciplinary Centre for European Enlightenment Studies, Martin-Luther-Universität, Halle (Saale).
The very first question asked about a scientific project is often, What’s the use? The notion of utility has emerged as the criterion by which we regularly assess the relevance of scientific research, where it is linked to potential applications and economic benefits. The close relationship between knowledge, utility, technological improvement and profit has a long history which crystallised during the Age of Enlightenment. Through an interdisciplinary and global approach, this conference will investigate the emergence, modalities, consequences, and limits of what is known as ‘useful’ knowledge.
You can find further details on the conference here.
Image credit: © Réunion des musées nationaux – Grand Palais et musée national et domaine du château de Pau, 2024.
