Publication details
Hedonistic Occultism : Blood Desire Sex and Magic
| Authors | |
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| Year of publication | 2022 |
| Type | Conference |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
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| Description | The objective of this conference is to enquire and discuss the pursuit of pleasure as a means and a goal of esoteric teachings. The integration of pleasure whether manifested as sex, power, money, revenge, gratification, or safety has always been a relevant objective of magical and alchemical practices. The temptation deriving from the use of hidden powers and gaining supernatural advantages. Sometimes considered as a trap to avoid or equivalent to worldly delusions a hindrance for the initiate. Other times pleasures have been integrated into esoteric systems of thinking, justified or in the most antinomian perspectives, reframed and encouraged. How is thus this objective of pleasure conceptualized, what justifications and roles does it play? What are these pleasures and what do they say about the people who pursue them? The ultimate goals of spiritual practices are generally associated with descriptions of sublime bliss, ecstasy, and achievements of states of being which transcend ordinary temporary satisfaction. These descriptions have been variously interpreted leading lead to debates, accusations of heresy, and exclusion from mystical institutions. Rituals and meditations, lifestyles and systems of belief have evolved around conceptualizing pleasure as a powerful force capable of altering the structure of reality. But these pleasures do not belong necessarily to one faction or one perspective, often times a hedonistic approach does not need to be selfish but geared towards maximizing pleasure for everyone. Gurus and spiritual leaders from various orientations have moreover incentivized the pursuit of pleasure as a necessary component of human existence. Sex magic or various interpretations of alchemy as a union of bodies rather than a union of internal opposites. Intoxication with various substances to increases sensual perception as much as frenetic rituals to inflame one’s spirit. The residues of counterculture also seek the reconceptualization of pleasures in reactive contrast to a perceived oppressive religious institution. The concept of pleasure and its pursuit is thus not necessarily straightforward and there are as many facets to its conceptualization as there are thinkers involved in its exploration. While the conference presentations will be held online we were able to gather some resources to organize a face-to-face event for those who wish to have the full experience. We will hold an artistic and cultural exhibition on the theme of the conference which can be visited at your leisure. It will be open to the public where we also intend to screen the online conference. The conference, together with the art exhibition will take place on 3-4 June, 2022 in Brno, Czech Republic. For guests who wish to attend in person we recommend booking accomodation in advance, or letting us know if you require assistance with your arrival. At the same time, the conference event will be streamed online for those who can’t attend in person. |
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