This summer, open-air philosophy attracted a wide audience

Indeed, Philippe Granarolo's Agoras were highly popular this summer on the esplanade Gérard Philipe, transformed into a friendly philosophical gathering open to all. Organized by the association Agoras 83, in partnership with the Ville de La Garde, these evenings aim to make philosophy living, current, and accessible. A philosopher by training and a preparatory class teacher for many years, Philippe Granarolo was deputy mayor in charge of culture in La Garde, where he initiated numerous cultural events, including the Thém’Art colloquiums or the literary meetings Parlez-moi d’un livre. The Agoras d’Été, which he hosted from 2016 to 2019, were put on hold during the pandemic before being reborn in 2023. “The principle is to offer the public an encounter between classical thought and contemporary issues through an unprecedented concept, which is philosophical coaching,” says the Varois philosopher.

ACCESSIBLE PHILOSOPHY

He adds: “These evenings aim to make philosophy living and accessible to all. The principle is simple: to imagine what Rousseau, Hegel, or Sartre could bring us today if they became our personal coaches. What light would they offer us to help us overcome our doubts, enlighten our choices, and assume our responsibilities?” The meetings take place in three parts: a first part in the form of an interview during which Philippe Granarolo lends his voice to the guest philosopher of the day, in a lively dialogue with his partner Valérie, followed by an open discussion with the audience. Thus, on July 7, the first meeting set the tone. In front of more than a hundred participants, Philippe Granarolo proposed a stimulating exchange around the theme “Contre Rousseau, tout contre.” A conference as provocative as it was fascinating, during which the famous philosopher of the Enlightenment was summoned to become our personal coach. And what if Rousseau could help us think about our relationship with nature, society, or even education in 2025? An evening that fascinated the public thanks to this original approach. With these gatherings, Philippe Granarolo does not just transmit knowledge. In fact, he invites his audience to collective reflection, dialogue, and questioning. In short, a privileged moment of exchange, at the crossroads of culture and citizenship, in a relaxed setting. •