- Philosopher Chantal Delsol has released a new book titled "La Tragédie migratoire et la chute des empires" published by Odile Jacob.
- In the work, Delsol establishes a direct comparison between the contemporary situation in Europe and the historical fall of the Roman Empire.
- She argues that the West is currently experiencing the collapse of an old empire, similar to the era of Rome's decline.
- To counter what she describes as "civilizational erasure," Delsol proposes a return to the teachings of Saint Augustine.
Quick Summary
Philosopher Chantal Delsol has published a new book titled "La Tragédie migratoire et la chute des empires" through the publisher Odile Jacob. In this work, she draws a historical parallel between the current state of Europe and the collapse of the Empire romain.
Delsol argues that the West is undergoing a period of decline similar to the fall of Rome. She warns against "l'effacement civilisationnel" (civilizational erasure) and suggests that the wisdom of saint Augustin offers necessary guidance for the present time. The book positions the migration crisis within the broader context of historical imperial collapses.
Historical Parallels and Modern Decline
In her latest publication, Chantal Delsol draws a stark comparison between the modern West and the final days of the Empire romain. The philosopher posits that the contemporary geopolitical landscape mirrors the instability that characterized the end of antiquity. She suggests that the Europe of today is witnessing the disintegration of a long-standing order.
The central thesis of the book is that the current era represents the "effondrement d'un vieil empire" (collapse of an old empire). This assessment is not limited to military or economic factors but extends to cultural and spiritual identity. Delsol views the migration crisis as a symptom of this deeper, systemic decline.
l'effacement civilisationnel— Chantal Delsol
The Threat of Civilizational Erasure
Delsol identifies a specific danger facing the Occident: "l'effacement civilisationnel" (civilizational erasure). This concept refers to the potential loss of cultural distinctiveness and historical continuity that has defined Western societies. The philosopher frames this as a tragedy comparable to the historical loss of Roman identity.
To combat this erosion, Delsol looks to the past for solutions. She advocates for a renewed examination of the works of saint Augustin. By revisiting the writings of the early Christian philosopher, she believes that contemporary society can find the intellectual and spiritual resources necessary to navigate the current crisis.
Book Details and Publication
The book, titled "La Tragédie migratoire et la chute des empires", was released by the publishing house Odile Jacob. It serves as a philosophical inquiry into the causes and consequences of the current migration movements. Delsol connects these movements to the historical patterns of empire dissolution.
Through this publication, Delsol contributes to the ongoing debate regarding the future of Europe and its cultural foundations. The work invites readers to consider the migration phenomenon not merely as a political issue, but as a historical event of significant magnitude.
"Comme à l’époque de la chute de Rome, l’Occident vit l’effondrement d’un vieil empire"
— Chantal Delsol
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the title of Chantal Delsol's new book?
Her new book is titled "La Tragédie migratoire et la chute des empires".
Who does Delsol cite as a source of wisdom for the current era?
She invites a rediscovery of the lessons of Saint Augustine.
What historical event does Delsol compare to the current European situation?
She compares it to the collapse of the Roman Empire.
