5th International Conference for Possibility Studies: 30th June - 4th July 2025
The DCU Centre for Possibility Studies was proud to co-host the 5th International Conference of Possibility Studies, in collaboration with the Department of Psychology at Maynooth University and the Possibility Studies Network.
This dynamic, in-person event brought together academics, researchers, creative practitioners, artists, and activists from across the globe. Held over five days at Maynooth University, the conference provided a rich platform for dialogue, discovery, and co-creation.
With the theme Communities of Possibility, the 2025 conference explored how individuals, groups, and societies can imagine and bring about new futures. Participants engaged deeply with the idea of community—not just as a concept, but as a lived experience—through collaborative workshops, many co-designed with local artists. These sessions invited attendees to experiment with new ways of working together, sharing ideas, and building creative and research-based collaborations.
The conference programme was packed with possibility, featuring:
- Keynote talks by internationally renowned thinkers
- Academic and practitioner presentations across disciplines
- Interactive workshops and artistic exhibitions
- Social events designed for meaningful networking and connection
Themes explored throughout the event included:
- Creativity and imagination
- Possibilities in education, health, development, and wellbeing
- Social movements, activism, and collective futures
- Future thinking, serendipity, and uncertainty
- The intersections of ethics, technology, AI, and digital media
- Designing for possibility and innovative methodologies
The conference served as a vibrant container for creative connection, dialogue, and imagination. It deepened understanding of agency, innovation, and the tools and practices that support the emergence of new possibilities in complex times.
The event was a resounding success—both intellectually and creatively—and affirmed the growing global interest in Possibility Studies as an interdisciplinary field.
The conference was generously supported by Creative Ireland and Fáilte Ireland, whose contributions helped make this ambitious and imaginative gathering possible.
The Centre extends warm thanks to all who participated and contributed to the success of this extraordinary event. Stay tuned for forthcoming publications, recordings, and collaborations emerging from this exciting international gathering.