Abstract

This article critically assesses the position of the spectator in philosophy and performances. By means of an in-depth reading of Rancière’s notion of the emancipated spectator, Kester’s theory of dialogical aesthetics and a case study of the performance Order of the Day, an account of the changing position of the audience in contemporary society and in artistic events is established. Research into the responsibility of the spectator in both philosophy and performance can broaden our understanding of the production and perception of knowledge in an age of media omnipresence. The field of Performance Philosophy provides potential for analyzing where performance and philosophy overlap and how this contributes to asking critical questions and generating new perspectives on how we occupy certain positions in society.