What's Happening?
The American Academy of Religion (AAR) and the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) are hosting their joint annual meeting in Boston from November 22-25, 2025. The event, taking place at the Hynes Convention Center, is expected to draw over 7,000 scholars
from around the world. The conference will feature nearly 1,000 sessions covering a wide range of topics, including global warming, migration, and gender issues, through the lenses of history, theology, and ethics. A significant focus will be on the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in religious studies. The event also includes a book exhibition with 85 booths, providing opportunities for networking and collaboration among scholars and publishers.
Why It's Important?
This conference is significant as it underscores the role of academic freedom in addressing contemporary social and political issues. The gathering of scholars in Boston, a city symbolic of freedom, is seen as an act of resistance against current political climates that some perceive as problematic. The event provides a platform for discussing critical issues such as climate change, gender-based violence, and the aftermath of the Catholic clergy sexual abuse scandal. It also highlights the challenges faced by religious studies departments, which are experiencing budget cuts and closures, impacting job opportunities for scholars.
What's Next?
The conference is expected to foster new collaborations and discussions that could influence future research and policy in religious studies. The focus on digital technologies and AI may lead to innovative approaches in the field. Additionally, the event may prompt further dialogue on the role of religion in addressing global challenges, potentially influencing public policy and societal attitudes.
Beyond the Headlines
The conference's emphasis on academic freedom and integrity highlights the ongoing struggle for scholars to conduct research without political interference. The decision of some international scholars to boycott the event due to political concerns reflects broader tensions in global academic exchanges. The discussions at the conference may contribute to a deeper understanding of how religious scholarship can address and influence societal issues.
