[Mar 20] Nakai Masakazu and the Collective Possibilities of Print in 1930s Japan

Date: March 20, 2026 (Fri)

Time: 3:30-5:30 pm

Venue: CRT-5.41, 5/F,. Run Run Shaw Tower, Centennial Campus, HKU

Speaker: Prof. Kyle Peters

Abstract:

This presentation takes as its topic the intersection of media theory and social movements in 1930s Japan. It focuses on the understudied Kyoto School philosopher and media theorist Nakai Masakazu and three of his print venues from this period: Bi-Hihyō (美・批評, Aesthetics & Criticism), Sekai Bunka (世界文化, World Culture), and Doyōbi (土曜日, Saturday). The aim of this talk is twofold. First, to show the ways that Nakai's media theory and media practices responded to the historical situation of 1930s Japan. And second, to look at his social and media theory on its own terms, and explore the ways in which it offers insights into contemporary issues that we face today.

Speaker's bio:

Kyle Peters is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Japanese Studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He specializes in Japanese philosophy, intellectual history, and media studies.

All are welcome. For enquiries, please contact Prof. Edwin Michielsen (emich@hku.hk)