A Book Launch Marred by Vandalism and Accusations of Obscurantism
The publication of Face à l’Obscurantisme woke (Confronting Woke Obscurantism), published by Presses Universitaires de France (PUF), has been overshadowed by a disturbing act of vandalism that occurred on the very day the book hit the shelves. On Wednesday, April 30th, the PUF’s premises were targeted, with vandals defacing the storefront with graffiti that read, "Feminists against fascist propaganda."
The authors of the book and its supporters have characterized this act as a blatant attempt to intimidate and silence dissenting voices. They argue that the timing of the vandalism, coinciding precisely with the book’s release, suggests a deliberate effort to undermine its reception and message. Furthermore, they see the act itself as a confirmation of the very thesis presented in the book – that "woke" ideology, in its more extreme manifestations, can be intolerant of opposing viewpoints and willing to resort to tactics that stifle intellectual discourse.
The authors assert that attacking books and institutions that promote the exchange of ideas is a hallmark of obscurantism and even a characteristic of totalitarian regimes. By targeting the Presses Universitaires de France, a respected academic publisher, the vandals, according to this perspective, struck at the heart of intellectual freedom and demonstrated a disdain for open debate.
The incident has ignited a fierce debate in France, with commentators and academics weighing in on the nature of "woke" ideology, the limits of free speech, and the role of universities in contemporary society. The book itself has become a focal point of this debate, even before many have had the opportunity to read it.
Adding fuel to the fire, the authors claim that prominent figures, including Professor Patrick Boucheron and various left-leaning publications, launched scathing critiques of the book even before its official release. These pre-emptive criticisms, they argue, were based on preconceived notions and ideological biases rather than a genuine engagement with the book’s arguments. This pre-emptive condemnation, in the authors’ view, is further evidence of an attempt to suppress critical analysis of "woke" ideology.
So, what exactly does this controversial book contain that has provoked such a strong reaction? According to its proponents, Face à l’Obscurantisme woke offers a rigorous and dispassionate examination of "wokeism," not through the lens of partisan polemics, but through the rigorous scholarship of respected academics. The authors emphasize that the book is not a mere collection of inflammatory opinions but rather a carefully researched and meticulously argued analysis of the intellectual foundations and social consequences of this increasingly influential ideology.
The book’s authors are described as established scholars with impeccable academic credentials, whose legitimacy cannot be easily dismissed. This, they believe, is precisely what makes the book so threatening to the fervent advocates of "wokeism." The argument is that while criticisms from outside academia might be easily dismissed as coming from biased or uninformed sources, a critique originating from within the hallowed halls of academia carries significantly more weight. It forces a confrontation with the intellectual underpinnings of "woke" ideology and demands a serious response from its adherents.
The core argument seems to be that the book presents a challenge to the intellectual dominance of "wokeism" within certain academic and cultural circles. By subjecting the ideology to rigorous scrutiny, the authors hope to encourage a more nuanced and critical discussion of its strengths, weaknesses, and potential unintended consequences. They seek to move beyond simplistic caricatures and engage in a genuine intellectual debate about the future of social justice and the role of universities in promoting open inquiry.
The vandalism and the preemptive attacks on the book raise important questions about the state of intellectual discourse in contemporary society. Are certain ideas becoming increasingly immune to criticism? Is there a growing tendency to silence dissenting voices through intimidation and public shaming? Is the pursuit of social justice being undermined by intolerance and dogmatism?
The authors of Face à l’Obscurantisme woke clearly believe that these questions demand urgent attention. They see their book as a contribution to a necessary and often uncomfortable conversation about the challenges facing universities and the broader culture. Whether their analysis is ultimately persuasive remains to be seen, but the controversy surrounding the book’s release has undoubtedly thrust these issues into the spotlight and ignited a debate that is likely to continue for some time. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of intellectual freedom and the importance of defending the right to question and challenge even the most deeply held beliefs. The real test will be whether the book’s arguments are engaged with on their merits or whether the focus remains on silencing those who dare to question the prevailing orthodoxy.
