During the 3rd edition of the Nos Futurs festival in Rennes, four guests with diverse backgrounds engaged in a philosophical discussion on the topic of giving one’s opinion. The speakers included journalist Jean-Michel Aphatie, psychologist Séverine Falkowicz, comedian Haroun, and entrepreneur Flora Ghebali. They all shared the common experience of constructing arguments in their daily lives. The debate was facilitated by Joséfa Lopez, with an introduction by Bleuenn Bidois, Clémentine Phan, and Oxana Louvetz.
Séverine Falkowicz emphasized the importance of giving opinions with the intention of fostering constructive dialogue rather than imposing views. She highlighted the concept of “epistemic benevolence,” which involves defending one’s viewpoints with sound arguments. Haroun suggested that discussions should aim to be enjoyable and enriching, resembling a Socratic exchange that benefits both parties. He also mentioned using humor in his work to address topics that evoke strong emotions.
Jean-Michel Aphatie raised the question of whether everyone should offer their opinion on every issue. He suggested that while citizens should reflect on various topics, it may be better to refrain from giving opinions in professional settings. Flora Ghebali reflected on the nuances of engagement and opinion-sharing, drawing on her experiences as a chronicle. She discussed the complexities of expressing views in different contexts and the potential impact on public perception.
The debate also touched on the role of humor in media and its potential to trivialize serious subjects. Haroun highlighted the value of humor in facilitating discussions and processing negative emotions. Flora Ghebali expressed concerns about the tendency for media outlets to prioritize entertainment over substantive content, citing examples from popular culture.
The discussion expanded to explore the role of experts in shaping public discourse and the need for critical thinking in evaluating expert opinions. The speakers acknowledged the challenges of navigating information in the digital age, where misinformation can spread rapidly. Séverine Falkowicz emphasized the importance of cultivating critical thinking skills to discern credible sources and avoid manipulation.
In the final segment, the speakers delved into the question of whether there should be limits to freedom of expression. They discussed the potential risks of misinformation and the responsibility of individuals to critically evaluate the information they consume. Jean-Michel Aphatie underscored the importance of trust in democracy and the belief that individuals can overcome manipulation through informed decision-making. The discussion concluded with reflections on the role of dialogue and diverse perspectives in shaping a more resilient and inclusive society.
