Monaco has long been a haven for culture and the arts, and now, through Les Rencontres Philosophiques de Monaco, it is also establishing itself as a centre for philosophical dialogue and intellectual exchange.
Founded to create a dedicated space where philosophy can thrive, the initiative brings together French and international thinkers, offering the public a unique opportunity to engage with the ideas that shape our understanding of the world, society, and ourselves.
Through a series of monthly conferences and workshops, Les Rencontres Philosophiques de Monaco aims to make philosophy accessible to all, welcoming the most eminent philosophers and fostering an inclusive environment for discussion. The initiative actively involves students, providing them with a voice alongside their teachers and encouraging them to participate in thoughtful exchanges. By choosing themes that resonate universally, Les Rencontres hopes to spark meaningful conversations that inspire deeper reflection.
The upcoming 2024-2025 season is set to be no exception. The program will commence with a thought-provoking lecture titled “C’était mieux avant?” (Was It Better Before?), hosted by Robert Maggiori, a founding member of Les Rencontres Philosophiques. This first session will explore the intriguing concept of “retrotopia,” a term coined by sociologist Zygmunt Bauman to describe society’s current tendency to idealize the past rather than look forward to the future. With guest speakers such as philosopher and psychoanalyst Cynthia Fleury and essayist David Djaïz, the discussion will examine why nostalgia seems to have replaced our faith in progress and whether such a mindset obscures present-day realities and possibilities.
The season will continue to feature some of the most prominent figures in contemporary philosophy, exploring themes that are relevant to all, such as identity, ethics, and the future of humanity. By presenting new perspectives and nurturing an open-minded approach to complex questions, Les Rencontres Philosophiques de Monaco is shaping up to be one of the leading platforms for philosophical engagement in Europe.
As Monaco continues to embrace the arts and intellectual pursuits, Les Rencontres Philosophiques is ensuring that philosophy has a home in the heart of the Principality, enriching its cultural fabric for future generations.
