Discussion event at Aberdeen Art Gallery, Friday 3 May 2024, 2-4pm
People can encounter dead human bodies and remains in a variety of contexts, and some people, including nurses, mortuary staff, pathologists, funeral directors, archaeologists and museum curators work regularly or often with those who have died. Most people are familiar with the idea that we should respect the dead, but it’s not always clear what that means, and some people are worried that the dead are not always treated with the respect they deserve. Join us for an exploration of why and how we should respect the dead!
The programme includes both presentations and opportunities for discussion. Regius Professor Simon Parson will share some practice-based reflections on anatomy and medical education, and Dr Rebecca Crozier will talk about her archaeological work and the retrieval and identification of twentieth century soldiers’ remains, before Professor Stephen Holland (University of York) outlines some more philosophical considerations. During discussion, participants will be invited to offer further insights from experience, ask questions and make suggestions to develop our understanding of whether and why particular ways of engaging with dead human bodies or human remains can be considered more and less respectful.
This event is part-funded by The Royal Institute of Philosophy (TRIP). It is organised by TRIP local partners at the University of Aberdeen (the Philosophy team and members of a proposed new Centre for Death Studies).
Tickets (£5 or free to those needing a concession) are available via https://ticketsource.co.uk/university-of-aberdeen-philosophy . Adults who do and who do not work directly with the dead are welcome. Attendance is limited to 40 participants. If you find yourself unable to attend, please ‘contact the organiser’ via Ticketsource to free a space for someone else.
