Call for Papers: Geographies of Privilege

RGS-IBG Annual International Conference, 1-3 September

Sponsored - Space, Sexualities and Queer Working Group

There is a vibrant and diverse range of research agendas focussed upon the often invisible or unspoken power relations which construct positions of privilege. This diversity of approaches includes, but is not limited to, examinations of; gendered privilege; heteronormativity; homonormativity; whiteness and privilege in post-colonial contexts; intersectionality of privilege; and the experience of 'being' privileged. Geographies of privilege have the potential to critically engage with the ways in which power relations provide benefits and resources for some individuals at the same time as marginalising others and thus have an important and growing relevance for contemporary society.

This session aims to discuss geographies of privilege recognising the diverse range of contexts, conceptualisations and methodologies this may entail. It seeks to encourage dialogue between various agendas and an appreciation of the intersections between multiple strands of work in this field. The session invites papers which focus on geographies of privilege, including but not limited to heteronormativity; homonormativity; whiteness and privilege in post-colonial contexts; intersectionality and privilege; and privileged identities; as well as methodological discussions on how privilege can be studied and investigated. We welcome a broad range of theoretical and methodological interventions in this developing field.

Abstracts of approximately 250 words can be submitted to Glen Noble, University of Brighton (g.s.noble@brighton.ac.uk). Deadline for submissions is 10th February 2010. Please include your name, institution, contact email address and technical requirements (projection, sound etc).