CFP: Technology and the Home
One could reasonably argue that without technology in its simplest form, homes would not exist. Technology has also made homes more comfortable, attractive, safer, and sturdier. In the pre-industrial past, the home’s relationship to technology was fairly straightforward: homes either
benefitted from changes in technology or they did not. Today, the relationships between the home and technology are complex and, at times, contradictory. For example, owners of a historic house will often research and revive outdated technologies in order to "correctly" restore a house to its former glory. Yet, they may incorporate modern decorative materials, lighting, heating, and appliances. On the other hand, the owner of a more recent home has an unprecedented range of environmentally friendly and fireproof materials, energy efficient appliances, and innovative furniture and furnishings from which to chose. In addition, some contemporary technologies that may seem benign, such as computers, RFID tags, smart
technology and the latest appliances, may have detrimental effects. Technology and the Home welcomes papers examining the home's positive and negative relationships to technology in any and all past, present, and future applications. There is no limit on the time frame nor upon the
methodology. Proposals from undergraduates, graduate students, and professionals welcome.
The 2005 conference is from November 4-6 in New Brunswick, NJ. Registration
fees apply. For more information, please go to
http://www.wcenter.ncc.edu/gazette/
Deadline for proposals: June 15, 2005
Send 1-page proposal, CV & AV needs via snail mail to:
Loretta Lorance
P.O. Box 461
Inwood Station
New York, NY 10034-0461
