From the sovereignty of nations to the authority to end a life, ethical questions are closely bound to the exercise of power. Recognising how power is at play is a complex task of discernment, whether because of its deliberate concealment or the lack of proper concepts of authorisation. Moreover, critical language about power often employs blunt terms such as ‘imperialism’ or, indeed, ‘playing god,’ which obstruct the nuanced task of ethical description. 

In light of such challenges, we announce our 2014 Postgraduate Conference, featuring Professor Esther D. Reed. We welcome abstracts for paper presentations from students in Systematic / Practical Theology, Political / Moral Philosophy, Sociology, Biblical / Religious Studies and other disciplines. Topics related to our theme include:

•   Ecological ‘dominion’ and stewardship
•   Gendering in institutions and academic disciplines
•   Legislation of the beginning and ends of life
•   Media portrayals of political contestation
•   Peace-building in the midst of conflicting rights and territories
•   Scriptural authority vis-à-vis ‘tradition’ and ‘reason’ in moral argument
•   Surveillance, security, and the maintenance of national borders
•   Technological advancement in manufacturing and health
•   'The Powers' in biblical exegesis and theology

Abstracts under 500 words will be accepted until March 7 through our online system at http://www.ssce.org.uk/pg-conference-paper-proposal.

Following the conference, presenters will have the opportunity for advisement by an experienced Society member in order to refine a paper proposal for the 2015 SSCE Annual Conference, ‘Power and Its Limits,’ which coincides with the anniversary of the Magna Carta.

Professor Esther D. Reed is Associate Professor in Theology and Religion at the University of Exeter, where she is also Director of the Network for Religion in Public Life. Her current research delves into questions of theology and international law, narrative theology in religious education, and the theology of work. She has most recently published Theology and International Law (T&T Clark, 2013).