The aim of the conference is to explore the interrelations between shared cultural context and interpersonal understanding from an interdisciplinary perspective. Some of the questions to be considered include: How do shared cultural contexts and in-group/out-group dynamics enable and influence different forms of interpersonal understanding? Conversely, what is the impact of interpersonal understanding on shared cultural contexts? In this regard, is there a specific role for empathy, sympathy, and/or mutual recognition?