Monaco’s annual Philosophy Week is underway, bringing together leading philosophers, writers, psychologists and researchers to explore one of humanity’s most enduring and complex themes: desire…
Organised by the Rencontres Philosophiques de Monaco, the week-long programme runs until June 28 and features conferences, round-table discussions, philosophy lunches and special events across the Principality. Founded in 2015 by Charlotte Casiraghi, Robert Maggiori, Joseph Cohen, and Raphael Zagury-Orly, it aims to make philosophy accessible to the general public through debates, lectures, and open dialogues.
Venues including the Caroline Library, Princess Grace Theatre and Yacht Club de Monaco are hosting a diverse series of public conversations designed to make philosophy accessible to all.
This year’s theme, desire, was introduced during the opening morning session, which examined the subtle distinctions between desire, need and envy. Rather than offering simple definitions, speakers encouraged audiences to consider how desire shapes human behaviour, imagination and fulfilment, while also recognising that it can sometimes become destructive.
The programme draws on expertise from a wide range of disciplines, including philosophy, psychology, sociology and psychiatry, allowing participants to explore the subject from multiple perspectives. One of the first Philosophy Lunches focused on children’s emotional development, examining how understanding a child’s desires can help explain behaviours that may concern parents and educators.
The week will also celebrate the tenth anniversary of the PhiloMonaco Prize and include the second edition of the Festival Littéraire Intérieur, highlighting the close links between philosophy, literature and the arts. Full details of the programme are available through the Rencontres Philosophiques de Monaco website.
Images: Stephan Danna