We are happy to announce that our call for proposals for 2024/2025 is now open!

The deadline for applying for a philosophy residency (1-4 weeks) is October 15th, 2024.

We extend a warm invitation to individuals from across the globe to seek this unique opportunity for a retreat in Susimetsa, near Pärnu, Estonia. Here, you can dedicate your time to crafting a philosophical paper or advancing work on a book, all while residing in the villa owned by the German philosopher and bioethicist, Theda Rehbock. Her villa is currently overseen by the nonprofit organization known as “Prof. Dr. Theda Rehbock’s Susimetsa Philosophicum”. You are also welcome to make contact with the Centre for Ethics or the Institute of Philosophy and Semiotics at Tartu University.

Our preference is inclined towards applicants interested in delving into Theda Rehbock’s (27.08.1957-02.01.2021) works and manuscripts (Nachlass), or those engaged in research related to her areas of focus. These areas encompass a wide range of philosophical themes, including philosophy as a way of life, moral autonomy, human dignity, paternalism, doctor-patient relationships, respecting the will of mentally ill persons, living will and advanced directive for medical decisions; the pursuit of good life and death, theory of emotions, human nature, education, language and ethics, the philosophical critique of the world-view of natural sciences; Goethe's theory of colours.

The aim of the residency programme is to offer a retreat from social obligations. The spacious villa with a philosophical library (most of the books are in German, some in English), surrounded by a beautiful garden, private lake, and sauna is at the resident’s disposal. Susimetsa offers both old-world charm and modern comfort. The peace, the beauty of nature and the cultural richness of books make Susimetsa the perfect place for a cultural retreat.

The applicant has the freedom to choose the time and duration of the residency, which can be anywhere between 1 to 4 weeks from November 2024 to April 2025. Each year up to 8 scholarships are awarded. We are also open to group applications.

The scholarship covers all costs regarding residency at the Susimetsa villa. Residents are responsible for their own transportation and food during the residency. The nearest supermarket is situated 5 km away, and the closest cafe-bakery is just 1.7 km away. Susimetsa is 16 km from Pärnu, 162 km from Tartu, 142 km from Tallinn, and 178 km from Riga.

Please be aware that this residency is intended for residents only and does not include provisions for extra guests. If you plan to bring any additional individuals or pets, an extra fee will be applicable.

How to apply?

Kindly submit your project description (3 pages) and your academic CV by October 15th, 2024 to the following email address: info@susimetsa.ee

P.S. The self-funded residencies (1-8 weeks) are available for scholars and artists from all over the world during the whole year. https://susimetsa.ee/book-your-stay/

Additionally, we offer the option to organize small workshops or writing retreats in Susimetsa. https://susimetsa.ee/events/

Prof. Margit Sutrop
Board member of the non-profit organization „Prof. Dr. Theda Rehbocki Susimetsa Philosophicum“