Un cycle pour explorer la démocratie au Théâtre de la Concorde

Each month, based on the theme running through the Théâtre de la Concorde's programme, political scientist Loïc Blondiaux invites a prominent intellectual figure to explore a major democratic question. Together, they offer keys to understanding our era, shedding light on the debates that traverse it, and imagining the conditions for a more vibrant democracy.

To understand democracy is to understand the world in which we live. How is opinion formed? Why is trust weakening? How can we debate without tearing each other apart? What drives us to act, resist, or get involved? Led by Loïc Blondiaux, professor of political science and a recognised specialist in participatory democracy, this series of meetings aims to explore major contemporary democratic issues through the themes that punctuate the Théâtre de la Concorde's season. At each meeting, Loïc Blondiaux dialogues with an author, a researcher, or a public figure whose work sheds light on the month's theme. Together, they cross-reference their perspectives to contextualise the transformations in our society, the tensions running through it, and the collective resources we have to respond to them. True to the spirit of a popular university, each meeting gives a central place to the public. After an introduction by Loïc Blondiaux and his guest, participants are invited to discuss in small groups to collectively bring forth the questions and issues that concern them. These contributions then form the starting point for the dialogue with the speakers. The sessions can be followed independently of each other and offer as many opportunities to fuel democratic debate based on the questions that concern us all.

8 October 2026: Democratic Courage

With Cynthia Fleury

In the face of crises, identity retrenchment, and threats to public debate, what does courage still mean in a democracy? Is it an individual virtue or a collective responsibility? Based on the work of Cynthia Fleury, philosopher and psychoanalyst, author notably of La Fin du courage, this meeting examines what enables us today to speak out, resist, get involved, and act despite uncertainties.

19 November 2026: Is Trust Still Possible