La démission de la morale

In this thought‑provoking essay the author steps back from contemporary debates to trace the development of French moral thought from Kant to the early twentieth century. By treating morality both as a systematic science and as a practical art, he invites readers to reconsider what guides our actions. The opening sections compare the ancient stoics, Socrates and the epicureans, showing how their differing approaches still echo in modern philosophy.

The writer argues that when morality is framed as a set of rules it inevitably leans on religion, science, or self‑reference, while an artistic view treats it as a clever adaptation to life's situations. Using clear examples and a touch of humor, he examines how intellectual currents have shaped everyday conduct. Listeners will find a balanced mix of historical insight and lively speculation that makes the study of ethics feel both scholarly and accessible.