Marc-Olivier Padis
is editor-in-chief of Esprit and member of the Eurozine Editorial Board.
Eurozine Articles
Relocating the European debate
"Esprit" editor Marc-Olivier Padis outlines why a strong platform for European debate has yet to emerge and the role that cultural journals can play in establishing one. Among the most urgent issues for discussion: liquid modernity, cultural decentralization and the dilemmas of an open society. [more]
The legal ramifications of marriage
Citizens will risk entering into legally precarious situations if there is no change in the law on marriage and adoptions, writes Padis. But whatever the legal consequences of reconfiguring the family, they must not lead to the weakening of individual ties through normative tinkering. [more]
Responsibility for Europe: A relative concept
On French-German tensions during the euro crisis
French-German leadership during the crisis has been fraught with tension. It's not so much that Germany is abandoning its responsibilities, more a case of differences in political culture. While Germany may seem dilatory, French resolve forfeits democratic deliberation. [more]
The conflict and the historian
Interview with Henry Laurens and Avi Shlaim
"The great power is more often the prisoner of its local allies than the other way round." Dialogue with two historians, one of Israel, the other of Palestine; reflections on the impact of history on society and the interaction between local and global powers. [more]
Will the book enter the digital age?
An interview with Pascal Fouché
The digitization of the book has brought a new balance of power in the trade, with established publishers locked in struggle with the new digital distributors. Pascal Fouché discusses whether publishers are prepared for the dematerialization of the printed word. [more]
French universities: Outlook and resistance
An interview with Yves Lichtenberger
Opposition to the decentralization of the French university system culminated in protests by teaching staff in March 2009. Justified resentment at the top-down nature of the reforms combined with a resistance to change, argues Yves Lichtenberger. [more]
Open letter on the public good and the role of generalist journals
The editors of "Esprit" write an open letter defending the role of generalist journals. When the academic world communicates only with specialists, and the "opinion forming" press provides only superficial analysis, generalist journals balance depth against accessibility. [more]
A history to be handed down
Interview with Lilian Thuram
The Caribbean-born French footballer Lilian Thuram talks about his longstanding interest in the history of slavery, about how sport can teach mutual respect, and why he still believes in the French model of integration. [more]
The democratic neighbour
Politics of human rights in an enlarged Europe
The politics of human rights had its heyday in Europe in the 1990s; today, it is held responsible for a variety of ills. The editor of Esprit defends democracy's radical commitment. [more]


















