Pluralism, Identity, and Diverse Democracies in Modern France

Explore the complex dynamics of diverse democracies in this 2-hour 33-minute conference talk from The Aspen Institute. Examine how minority groups, historically persecuted or overlooked, have gained new respect and traction in recent decades. Analyze the unintended consequences of heightened group identity, including its impact on mutual appreciation and discourse. Investigate the potential "identity trap" that can hinder progress and consider whether "wokeness" and MAGA-style national populism inadvertently reinforce each other. Delve into alternative approaches that may lead to greater cultural and human dignity. Focus on the experiences of Jewish communities in France amidst debates on laïcité and church-state separation. Contemplate the possibilities for minority groups to flourish in a pluralistic society within "secular" France. Draw parallels with Muslim communities and discuss how journalists can effectively convey these nuanced stories in the context of contemporary European pluralism.