About the Society

Purpose

By all manner of means, to:

• Advance the practice and appreciation of the science beyond metaphysics, particularly in English.
• Celebrate the life and works of Alfred Jarry and his artistic and philosophical progeny, engaging even those who are unaware of the Science.
• Discover and promote contemporary applications of pataphysics (including anti-pataphysics).
• Bring pataphysicians together for the enjoyment of their shared company.

Origins

Because it cannot help but have existed at the time of the first Dutch settlements, and even before, the Pataphysical Society of New York is one of the oldest institutions in the New World, although it was not formalized within civilized bureaucracy until 2007.

The Society’s first activities in the modern era were a series of ceremonies commemorating the centennial death anniversary of Alfred Jarry.

In 2011 the Society hosted its first public events, inaugurating a lecture series on pataphysical fundamentals and sponsorship of young artists and writers, through grants and opportunities to show their work.

In 2012, the Society hosted a delegation from the Escola Horizontal de Patafisica of Belo Horizonte, expanding its diplomatic reach and advocacy for pataphysics in the Western Hemisphere.

Today the society contintues to publish English-first commentary and news, as well as theoretical, historical, and aesthetic works. Though infrequent, we occasionally host events.

The Society maintains North America’s most comprehensive, accessible collection of English-language pataphysical works and uniquely distinguishes itself through its embrace of both pataphysical and anti-pataphysical contributions to Science.

Doctrinal Positions

A few exclamations and disclaimers on pataphysical topics are noted here.

Staff

M. Stoff, Director
S. Maros, Secretary
Dr. J. Youssef
W. Jonze