European Sociological Assocation Research Network 18 - Sociology of Communications and Media Research Conference "Communication, Crisis, and Critique in Contemporary Capitalism" University of the Basque Country, Bilbao. October 18-20, 2011 New deadline for abstract submissions: July 20th, 2012 Keynote Talk: Prof. Peter Golding (Northumbria University, UK) – Why a Sociologist should take Communications and Media Seriously We are living in times of global capitalist crisis that require rethinking the ways we organize society, communication, the media, and our lives. In the social sciences, there is a renewed interest in critical studies, the critique and analysis of class and capitalism, and critical political economy. The overall goal of this conference is to foster scholarly presentations, networking, and exchange on the question of which transitions media and communication and media sociology are undergoing in contemporary society. The conference particularly welcomes contributions that are inspired by sociological theories, critical studies, and various strands and traditions of the critical study of media & society. Submission and Participation An abstract of 200-250 words should be sent to Dr. Romina Surugiu, University of Bucharest, at the following e-mail address: bilbao.conference@yahoo.com Please insert the words Bilbao in the subject. The deadline for abstract submission is July 20th, 2012. If you want to participate without paper presentation, then please register via e-mail to Romina Surugiu, stating that that you want to register and participate. Conference Fee For members of ESA RN18: 35 Euros For non-members of ESA RN18: 50 Euros The fee will be collected from the participants at the registration in Bilbao. You can become a member of ESA RN18 by joining the ESA and subscribing to the network. The network subscription fee is only 10 Euros for a 2-year period: http://www.europeansociology.org/member/ You can become a member of ESA and of RN18 here: http://www.europeansociology.org/member/ Christian Fuchs, Peter Golding, George Pleios (ESA RN18 Chair, Honorary Chair, Vice-Chair)