“Surviving and Thriving in Times of Change”

The way we think, reason and behave as individuals, as communities and societies is in a process of constant change and renegotiation. The only constant of change is change itself, as Heraclitus most famously put it some 2,500 years ago. Change may not be new, but its pace, assisted and facilitated by advanced technologies, means these processes have never been faster. While in some ways we have grown together through the processes of globalisation, in others we have become more isolated, marginalised and alienated. Religious traditions, and the relationship between religion and civil society, have also faced dramatic change.

This conference’s theme of “surviving and thriving” in these times of change invites us to continue to consider this large question through the traditions and lenses of studies associated with religion, philosophy and ethical studies.

The role of religion is seen by many as having no place in the modern world. Where and when it does wield influence it is often viewed as inappropriate or malevolent, and as a barrier to “progress” and “modern” thinking. In today’s fast-paced and technology driven world are the study of philosophy and ethics useful, or are they similarly becoming irrelevant and ossified? What is the continued role and relevance of ethics, religion and philosophy, as subjects to be studied, discussed and lived as core parts of our individual and collective lives? How can they help us stay resilient in the face of challenges and failures? How can they help us overcome the various difficulties that life brings?

The European Conference on Ethics, Religion & Philosophy 2018 (ECERP2018) will be held alongside The European Conference on Psychology & the Behavioral Sciences 2018 (ECP2018). Registration for either conference will allow delegates to attend sessions in the other.

In conjunction with our Global Partners, including the University of Sussex and Birkbeck, University of London, we look forward to extending you a warm welcome in 2018.

The ECERP2018 Organising Committee

Professor Dexter Da Silva, Keisen University, Japan
Professor Frank S. Ravitch, Michigan State University College of Law, USA
Professor Anne Boddington, University of Brighton, UK
Dr Joseph Haldane, The International Academic Forum (IAFOR), Japan

Key Information
  • Venue & Location: The Jurys Inn Brighton Waterfront, Brighton, UK
  • Dates: Tuesday, July 03, 2018 ​to Wednesday, July 04, 2018
  • Conference Theme: “Surviving and Thriving in Times of Change”
  • Early Bird Abstract Submission Deadline: February 15, 2018*
  • Final Abstract Submission Deadline: April 16, 2018
  • Registration Deadline for Presenters: May 16, 2018

*Submit early to take advantage of the discounted registration rates. Learn more about our registration options.


About Brighton

The International Academic Forum’s European Conference Series is based in the vibrant city of Brighton in the UK. From iconic tourist spots to beachfront cool, Brighton is crammed full of things to see and do. Boasting a cultural heritage that includes the Royal Pavilion, Regency architecture and Victorian aquariums plus the seaside attractions of Brighton Pier, the Brighton Wheel and the famous pebble beach, Brighton offers something to delight each and every visitor.