Upcoming Conferences
Join scholars from around the world for lighthearted scholarship on humor and the philosophy of humor
20th Annual Lighthearted Philosophers' Conference
🎉 A Special Milestone — Our 20th Anniversary Meeting!
Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library — 543 Indiana Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202
Join us in Indianapolis at the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library for our 20th Anniversary Meeting! The call for papers is open — see the submission guidelines below for details.
Accommodations: A block of rooms has been reserved at the Sheraton Indianapolis City Centre.
Call for Papers
What We're Looking For
The LPS is the oldest continuously running society dedicated to the philosophically inspired study of laughter and humor. We encourage and welcome submissions on topics related to humor and laughter, and even humorous philosophical works. We are interested in:
- Philosophy of humor from any specialization
- Humorous approaches to philosophical topics
- Papers on philosophical questions about humor
- Creative performances and panel discussions
For inquiries, please reach out to LPS President Mike Cundall via the contact page.
Submission Categories
Individual Presentations
750–1,000 word extended abstract, including a brief 100–200 word overview. 1-hour presentation slot.
Panel Proposals
350–500 words specifying what each panelist will contribute
Short Performances
350–500 word rationale describing the theoretical contribution, plus a 350–500 word abstract of the performance. Include any AV requests.
Submission Guidelines
Undergraduate Submissions
We welcome undergraduate student submissions! To be considered for the undergraduate track and the Zaldivar Award:
- Mark your submission clearly with "UNDERGRADUATE" in the running header
- Your work will be reviewed separately from professional submissions
- Outstanding undergraduate work is eligible for the Zaldivar Award ($75)
Become a Heckler
Each accepted submission is accompanied by a "heckler" (commentator). If you'd like to volunteer as a heckler:
- Email the conference organizer with your areas of specialization
- Outstanding hecklers are considered for the Richard C. Richards Almost Memorial Prize ($50)
Conference Awards
Joseph S. Ellin Memorial Essay Prize
$100
For outstanding submitted papers
Richard C. Richards Almost Memorial Prize
$50
For exceptional hecklers
Zaldivar Award
$75
For outstanding undergraduate work
Stay Informed
Don't miss the call for papers or registration deadlines. Contact us to be added to our mailing list.