A cycle to explore democracy at the Théâtre de la Concorde
When: 08.10.2026 20:00
Where: 48.867426, 2.318928
Organizer: Admin
Understanding democracy means understanding the world we live in. How is opinion formed? Why does trust become fragile? How to debate without tearing each other apart? What drives us to act, resist, or engage? Led by Loïc Blondiaux, professor of political science and recognized specialist in participatory democracy, this series of meetings proposes to explore the major contemporary democratic issues through the themes that shape the season of the Théâtre de la Concorde.
At each appointment, Loïc Blondiaux dialogues with an author, a researcher or a personality whose work illuminates the theme of the month. Together, they cross their perspectives to put into perspective the transformations of our society, the tensions that run through it and the collective resources we have to respond.
True to the spirit of a popular university, each meeting gives a central place to the audience. After an introduction by Loïc Blondiaux and his guest, participants are invited to exchange in small groups in order to collectively bring forth the questions and issues that concern them. These contributions then become the starting point of the dialogue with the speakers.
The sessions can be followed independently of each other and constitute as many opportunities to nourish democratic debate from the questions that concern us all.
8 October 2026: Democratic courage
With Cynthia Fleury
In the face of crises, identity retreats and threats to public debate, what does courage still mean in democracy? Is it an individual virtue or a collective responsibility? Drawing on the work of Cynthia Fleury, philosopher and psychoanalyst, author notably of La Fin du courage, this meeting examines what today allows us to speak up, resist, engage and act despite uncertainties.
19 November 2026: Is trust still possible?
With Alexis Spire
Trust is the invisible foundation of any democratic life. Yet citizens seem increasingly numerous in expressing their distrust of institutions, political leaders or public action. Based on his book Légitime défiance, sociologist Alexis Spire will analyze the springs of this contemporary distrust and the necessary conditions for rebuilding a bond of trust between citizens and institutions.
17 December 2026: Holding debate: how to still understand each other?With Clotilde Nouët
In the age of social media, polarized opinions, and the constant clash of viewpoints, how can we preserve the conditions for a genuine democratic debate? Drawing on her research on the public sphere, deliberation, and freedom of expression, philosopher Clotilde Nouët examines the conditions for a fruitful disagreement and the possibility of confronting each other without breaking apart.
Tags: discussion, democracy, politics, lecture
Source: https://www.paris.fr/evenements/cycle-la-democratie-pour-tous-102572
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