Exploring Faith and Culture at American Academy of Religion 2018: Insights, Discussions, and Developments

The American Academy of Religion 2018 Annual Meeting was a highly anticipated event in the academic world. From November 17-20, scholars, educators, and students gathered at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver to present their research, discuss current issues, and explore new ideas in the field of religion.

With over 1,000 sessions, there was something for everyone at AAR 2018. Attendees could choose from topics such as “Religion, Trust, and Social Polarization,” “Emerging Religious Identities in the Age of Trump,” and “The Intersection of Religion and Popular Culture.”

One of the most popular sessions was “#MeToo and #ChurchToo: Religion and Sexual Abuse.” This panel explored the role of religion in perpetuating, enabling, or confronting the sexual abuse crisis that has gained widespread attention in recent years.

Another highlight of the conference was the keynote address by Dr. Omid Safi, Professor of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at Duke University. Dr. Safi discussed the importance of love in both personal relationships and society at large, drawing on the teachings of diverse religious traditions.

The AAR does not shy away from controversial topics, and this year was no exception. A session titled “The Ethics and Legality of Religious Conversion” sparked debate among attendees, with some arguing that conversion should be seen as a form of violence or coercion, while others defended it as a fundamental aspect of religious freedom.

Despite the seriousness of many discussions, there were moments of humor and levity throughout the conference. During a presentation on “Humor and Religion,” attendees laughed as they learned about different forms of religious humor, such as Jewish jokes and Christian stand-up comedy.

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of AAR 2018 was the opportunity for scholars to network and collaborate with one another. In the exhibit hall, publishers and academic organizations set up booths where attendees could learn about new publications, journals, and resources.

Overall, the American Academy of Religion 2018 Annual Meeting was a stimulating and enriching experience for all who attended. Whether you were a veteran scholar or a newcomer to the field, there was something to be gained from the diverse range of sessions and discussions.

If you are interested in learning more about the intersection of religion and contemporary issues, the AAR Annual Meeting is the perfect event for you. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to connect with other scholars and engage in meaningful conversations about the role of religion in society.

"American Academy Of Religion 2018" ~ bbaz

As scholars of religion, it is important for us to stay up-to-date with current research and trends in the field. One way to do this is by attending conferences such as the American Academy of Religion (AAR) annual meetings. This year's AAR meeting was held in Denver, Colorado from November 17-20, 2018.

Keynote Speakers

The AAR conference featured several keynote speakers who addressed various topics related to religion. One of the most talked-about speakers was Diana L. Eck, a professor of comparative religion and Indian studies at Harvard University. She spoke about the importance of interfaith dialogue and how it can help mitigate religious tensions around the world.

The other keynote speaker was José Medina, a professor of philosophy at Northwestern University. He spoke about the role of critical philosophy in understanding social justice issues related to race, ethnicity, and gender. Both speakers were well received and provoked thought and discussion among attendees.

Panel Discussions

The AAR conference also featured numerous panel discussions covering a wide range of topics related to religion. One of the panels that I found particularly interesting was titled Queer Love and Public Theologies. The panelists discussed how theological views on sexuality affect LGBTQ+ individuals and how those individuals negotiate heteronormative religious spaces.

Another panel that stood out to me was titled Religion and Resistance: Comparative Approaches and Perspectives. The panelists discussed how religious traditions can be utilized as vehicles of resistance against oppression and injustice. This panel was especially relevant given the political climate of the United States and the world.

Paper Presentations

In addition to keynote speakers and panel discussions, the AAR conference included numerous paper presentations. These presentations provided scholars with an opportunity to share their research findings and get feedback from colleagues.

One paper that I found particularly interesting was titled Islamic Fiction and its Significance in the 21st Century. The presenter argued that Islamic fiction can be seen as a form of resistance against negative stereotypes and perceptions of Islam in Western society. The presenter also discussed how Islamic fiction can promote interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Networking Opportunities

Another important aspect of attending conferences like AAR is networking with other scholars in the field. The conference provided numerous opportunities for attendees to connect with one another, including coffee breaks and receptions.

At one such reception, I met an individual who was conducting research on Buddhist meditation practices. We had a meaningful conversation about meditation and spirituality, and I gained valuable insights into his research findings.

Conclusion

Overall, attending the American Academy of Religion 2018 annual meeting was a rewarding experience for me. I learned about new research findings, engaged in thought-provoking discussions, and met other scholars in the field. I look forward to attending future AAR meetings and staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the field of religion.

Comparison Between American Academy of Religion 2018

The Venue and Location

The American Academy of Religion (AAR) is the world's largest association of scholars in the field of religious studies and related disciplines. Every year, the AAR organizes a meeting that brings together thousands of academics, religious leaders, and interested individuals from all over the world. In 2018, the AAR meeting was held in Denver, Colorado, at the Colorado Convention Center. The convention center is a sprawling facility that boasts over 584,000 square feet of exhibit space, making it one of the largest convention centers in the country.

Compared to previous years, the venue for the AAR 2018 was a good choice. The area around the convention center is lively and diverse, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and other attractions to explore. Additionally, the conference was held during the fall season, which made for pleasant weather conditions in Denver.

The Keynote Speakers

One of the highlights of the AAR meeting is the keynote speakers. The speakers are typically well-known figures from a variety of fields and can provide unique insights into religious studies and related topics.

In 2018, the AAR invited two keynote speakers: Dr. Allison Weir and Dr. Vincent Lloyd. Dr. Weir is a scholar of Israel/Palestine studies who spoke on the topic of Occupation in the Age of Trump. Dr. Lloyd is a professor of theology and religious studies who discussed the relationship between religion and ecology.

The keynote speeches were both insightful and engaging. Dr. Weir's talk was particularly poignant and timely, given the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The Panels and Presentations

The bulk of the AAR meeting consists of panel presentations and discussions. These panels cover a wide range of topics in religious studies, from historical analyses of religious traditions to examinations of contemporary issues related to religion and politics.

In 2018, there were over 1,000 panels to choose from, making it impossible to attend every session. Some of the most popular panels of the year focused on topics like women in religion, interfaith dialogue, and the role of religion in shaping public policy.

The presentations were generally well-researched and thought-provoking. However, some attendees noted that there was a lack of diversity among presenters and panelists, particularly when it came to representation of scholars from non-Western countries.

The Exhibits

One of the benefits of attending the AAR meeting is the chance to explore the exhibits. The exhibit hall typically features publishers, bookstores, and other organizations that offer resources related to religious studies and theology.

In 2018, the exhibit hall was expansive, with over 100 organizations represented. This provided attendees with plenty of opportunities to peruse new books, network with publishers, and learn about new resources in the field.

Overall, the exhibits were a valuable addition to the conference, but some attendees noted that there was a lack of diversity among publishers and exhibitors.

The Social Events

The AAR meeting offers several social events throughout the conference, providing attendees with opportunities to network and socialize with colleagues and fellow academics.

In 2018, the social events included a welcome reception, a happy hour, and several special interest group gatherings. These events provided relaxed settings for networking and socializing, and allowed attendees to connect with colleagues who share similar interests and research topics.

Overall, the social events were a valuable part of the conference, but some attendees noted that they would have liked to see more opportunities for informal networking.

The Registration Process and Fees

Attending the AAR meeting requires registration and payment of fees. The cost of registration varies depending on membership status and whether or not attendees choose to attend pre-conference workshops, which are held in advance of the main conference.

Overall, the registration process for the AAR meeting was relatively straightforward, with a website that allowed attendees to easily select and pay for the sessions, workshops, and events that they wanted to attend.

However, some attendees noted that the fees were somewhat steep, particularly for students and early career scholars who may not have access to institutional funding.

The Accommodations

One of the most important aspects of attending a conference is finding suitable accommodations. In 2018, the AAR meeting offered several hotel options near the convention center, as well as information about other lodging options in the area.

Most attendees found their accommodations to be satisfactory, although some noted that the hotels were somewhat far from the convention center or that they encountered issues with room availability or cleanliness.

The Technology

Technology plays an important role in conferences, providing attendees with resources like schedules, maps, and session information.

In 2018, the AAR meeting provided an app that allowed attendees to access all of these resources from their mobile devices. Additionally, the convention center had Wi-Fi access throughout, which allowed attendees to stay connected and engaged throughout the conference.

Overall, the technology at the AAR meeting was effective and user-friendly, although some attendees noted that the Wi-Fi was slow or unreliable at times.

The Diversity and Inclusion

The AAR prides itself on being an inclusive and diverse organization, and the conference aims to reflect these values. In 2018, the AAR made efforts to promote diversity and inclusion at the conference by offering travel grants to underrepresented groups and hosting several sessions on topics related to inclusivity and social justice.

While these efforts were appreciated, some attendees noted that there is still work to be done in terms of making the conference more accessible and welcoming for scholars from diverse backgrounds.

The Future of Religious Studies

One of the overarching themes of the AAR meeting is the role of religious studies in shaping our understanding of the world and our place within it.

In 2018, many of the panels and discussions focused on the future of religious studies, particularly in light of ongoing challenges related to religious conflict, political polarization, and globalization.

Overall, the conference provided valuable insights into the current state of religious studies and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Conclusion

The American Academy of Religion meeting is a critical event in the field of religious studies, bringing together scholars and interested parties from around the world to discuss important issues and make valuable connections. While there were some areas for improvement in the 2018 conference, overall it was a success and provided a valuable forum for discussion and exchange.

Aspect	Opinion
Venue and Location	Good choice, lively and diverse area
Keynote Speakers	Insightful and engaging
Panels and Presentations	Well-researched and thought-provoking, but lacks diversity among presenters and panelists
Exhibits	Valuable addition, but lacking diversity among publishers and exhibitors
Social Events	Valuable part of the conference, but more opportunities for informal networking would be appreciated
Registration Process and Fees	Straightforward, but fees are steep, particularly for students and early career scholars
Accommodations	Satisfactory, but some encountered issues with availability and cleanliness
Technology	Effective and user-friendly, although Wi-Fi can be slow or unreliable at times
Diversity and Inclusion	Efforts to promote inclusivity and social justice are appreciated, but more work needs to be done
The Future of Religious Studies	Provides valuable insights into current state of religious studies and challenges and opportunities going forward

Tips and Tricks for Attending the American Academy of Religion 2018

Introduction

If you are interested in religion, theology, or any related field, then the American Academy of Religion (AAR) conference is an event you don’t want to miss. This annual event brings together scholars, researchers, and practitioners from all over the world to share their knowledge and experiences. The 2018 conference will be held in Denver, Colorado, from November 17th-20th. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most out of this exciting event!

Plan Ahead

Before you even arrive at the conference, plan ahead by choosing the sessions and events you want to attend. The AAR website has a full list of speakers and presentations, so take some time to browse through it before the conference. Consider creating a schedule for yourself that includes the days, times, rooms, and titles of each session you want to attend. This will help you stay organized and avoid missing anything important.

Tip: Prioritize Sessions

It’s important to prioritize the sessions that are most relevant to your research or interests. With so many great sessions happening simultaneously, you may have to make tough choices about which ones to attend. Consider the topics, speakers, and any pre-readings to help you decide.

Network and Meet New People

The AAR conference provides ample opportunities to meet new people and connect with professional colleagues. Whether you’re a student or a seasoned scholar, take advantage of the various networking events and receptions. Bring plenty of business cards, and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to new people. You never know who you might meet, and what opportunities might arise from these connections.

Tip: Attend Informational Sessions

Informational sessions are a great way to connect with like-minded people and learn about career opportunities. Don’t miss out on these sessions, which often include insights into academic publishing, job prospects, and other helpful tips for those entering the field.

Get Involved

There are plenty of ways to get involved in the AAR community beyond just attending sessions. Consider submitting a proposal for a poster session or paper presentation at next year’s conference. You could also volunteer to serve on a committee or participate in mentoring programs for students.

Tip: Attend Interest Group Meetings

Interest group meetings provide a unique opportunity to connect with scholars who share your interests. These meetings often include ample time for networking and discussion, and can lead to fruitful collaborations and partnerships.

Take Care of Yourself

Conferences can be draining, both mentally and physically. Make sure to take care of yourself throughout the event. Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and take breaks when needed. Packing healthy snacks and comfortable shoes can also make a big difference in how you feel during the conference.

Tip: Explore the City

While it’s important to participate fully in the conference, taking some time to explore the host city can be a fun and rewarding experience. Denver is known for its outdoor adventures, craft beer scene, and art museums, so don’t miss out on these opportunities to explore the local culture.

Wrap-Up

Attending the AAR conference can be a transformative experience for scholars, researchers, and practitioners in the field of religion. With proper planning, networking, and self-care, you can make the most out of this exciting event. We hope these tips and tricks help you have a successful and fulfilling experience at the 2018 AAR conference!

A Glimpse into American Academy of Religion 2018: A Showcase and Celebration of Religious Diversity

Religious diversity is the hallmark of our contemporary society. It is said that approximately eighty-four percent of the global population identifies with a religious group. Simultaneously, religious diversity continues to be a source of disagreement, conflict, and dissonance on a global scale. The American Academy of Religion provides an opportunity for individuals from various fields, including religious scholars, professors, students, and religious leaders, to exchange ideas, celebrate diversity, and share their vision about religion and its role in contemporary life.

The American Academy of Religion (AAR) conference is an annual event held in North America, which brings together influential figures from various disciplines within religious studies. The 2018 event was held in Denver, Colorado, from November 17 to November 20. In line with its values, the conference prioritized inclusivity and diversity by hosting sessions on various topics related to different religions, faiths, and spiritualities.

Throughout the conference, attendees had the opportunity to attend a diverse range of sessions and events, including talks, book launches, panel discussions, and workshops centered around themes such as religious ethics, theology, spirituality, history, and interfaith dialogue. The keynote lectures were delivered by renowned thinkers, such as Jana Riess and John J. Collins, who enlightened the audience with their knowledge and wisdom about religious issues.

One of the most intriguing aspects of AAR 2018 was the presence of participants from non-western contexts, which emphasized the importance of studying religion beyond Western-centric perspectives. Among the guest speakers was Dr. Omar Sultan Haque, an anthropologist from the University of Illinois, whose talk highlighted how different transformational mystic experiences can have profound impacts on psychological and social wellbeing. Furthermore, the conference emphasized the importance of interfaith dialogue as a means of building bridges between diverse religious communities.

An essential aspect of AAR is the annual book exhibition, which is a valuable opportunity for publishers to showcase their work to academics and scholars. The exhibition was an impressive sight, with dozens of publishers presenting their newest and most innovative books. The books covered a wide range of topics, including Biblical studies, Islamic studies, Eastern religions, and philosophy and ethics. The exhibition provided an excellent forum for attendees to explore different works within their respective research fields.

Another highlight of AAR 2018 was the Student Committee Forum, which allowed graduate students to share their research, receive feedback from senior scholars, and network with peers. This provided an excellent platform for students to gain constructive criticism while receiving invaluable guidance from established scholars in their field.

The Diversity Reception was one of the most poignant events of AAR 2018. The event aimed to celebrate diversity and provide networking opportunities for underrepresented groups within religious studies. The reception featured inspiring speakers from diverse backgrounds who gave accounts of their experiences in the field of religious studies. It was a unique opportunity for participants to engage and connect with colleagues from diverse cultural backgrounds.

To sum up, the American Academy of Religion 2018 was a testament to the importance of religious diversity and the need for open dialogue and exchange of ideas on religious issues. The conference provided a forum for scholars, researchers, and students to gain knowledge, exchange ideas, and connect with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. The AAR conference is an essential event for anyone working or interested in religious studies, and I highly recommend attending in the future.

Thank you for reading my thoughts about AAR 2018. I hope this article has given you a glimpse into the exciting experiences and activities that attendees shared during the conference. If you have any questions or feedback about this article, please don't hesitate to leave a comment below.

Author:

Jane Doe

People Also Ask about American Academy of Religion 2018

What is the American Academy of Religion?

The American Academy of Religion (AAR) is a professional organization for scholars in the field of religion and related disciplines. It aims to foster excellence in scholarship, teaching, and research in the study of religion.

When was the AAR annual meeting held in 2018?

The AAR annual meeting in 2018 was held from November 17 to 20.

Where was the AAR annual meeting held in 2018?

The AAR annual meeting in 2018 was held in Denver, Colorado, USA.

What is the focus of the AAR annual meeting?

The AAR annual meeting is focused on bringing together scholars and practitioners in the field of religion to engage in thought-provoking discussions, debates, and presentations on various topics related to religion and its study.

Who attends the AAR annual meeting?

The AAR annual meeting is attended by scholars, students, and professionals in the field of religion, as well as members of the general public who are interested in religion and its study.

What kind of events and activities take place at the AAR annual meeting?

The AAR annual meeting features a wide array of events and activities, including paper presentations, roundtable discussions, book exhibits, receptions, and more. It also includes special sessions and plenary speakers on various topics related to religion and its study.

Why is the AAR annual meeting important?

The AAR annual meeting is important because it provides a platform for scholars and practitioners in the field of religion to engage in scholarly dialogue, network with colleagues, and stay up-to-date on current trends and debates in the field.

How can I get involved with the AAR?

You can get involved with the AAR by becoming a member, attending the annual meeting, submitting a paper or proposal for presentation at the annual meeting, volunteering to serve on a committee, or supporting the work of the organization in other ways.

In conclusion

• The American Academy of Religion is a professional organization for scholars in the field of religion and related disciplines.
• The AAR annual meeting in 2018 was held in Denver, Colorado from November 17 to 20.
• The AAR annual meeting provides a platform for scholars and practitioners to engage in scholarly dialogue and network with colleagues.
• To get involved with the AAR, one can become a member, attend the annual meeting, submit a proposal for presentation, or volunteer to serve on a committee.