This free seminar, part of the ESRC series Reimagining Loneliness, will present a philosophical and religious inquiry into the nature of loneliness.

Keynote speakers:

Ben Mijuskovic currently teaches in the departments of philosophy and humanities at California State University, Dominguez Hills and is the author of four books, The Achilles of Rationalist Arguments; Loneliness in Philosophy, Psychology and Literature; Contingent Immaterialism: Meaning, Freedom, Time and Mind; and Feeling Lonesome: The Philosophy and Psychology of Loneliness as well as numerous articles. His primary interest is the history of consciousness with a special focus on loneliness. He has a PhD in philosophy and an MA in comparative literature, and he is a licensed clinical therapist (LCSW). His insights into loneliness are culled from both his theoretical studies and his practical experiences.

Dr Mijuskovic's session will be in two parts:

1) Loneliness and intimacy; self-consciousness and intentionality; and

2) Loneliness as an umbrellia concept: genus and species (including narcissism, hostility, anxiety, depression, failed communication; abandonment; betrayal and entitlement issues)

Reverend Canon Ralph Godsall is currently Priest Vicar at St Margaret’s Church, Westminster Abbey, London. He is an experienced priest with a rich and varied ministry in parochial, diocesan and university settings. He has a strong interest in the worldwide Church, interfaith dialogue and community outreach, with a passion for economic justice, human rights and the liberation of the poor and oppressed.

Reverend Godsall will be addressing: The Sound of Silence: A theological perspective on presence in absence. 

Following the presentations, there will be a 'questions and answers' session and, after a buffet lunch, a 'listening panel' where participants will have the opportunity to discuss the topics and issues raised.

More information about the Reimagining Loneliness ESRC seminar series is available at www.brunel.ac.uk/loneliness

For any enquiries, please contact: loneliness@brunel.ac.uk