Students protest with music

A group of high school students used music as a form of protest during a demonstration, facing off against law enforcement and looters in a chaotic situation. Their actions highlighted a growing use of artistic expression in political movements.

Orchestra founded for social causes

The Orchestre philharmonique du Nouveau Monde was established in 2020 by friends aiming to support social and climate movements through music. It has performed in symbolic locations, such as at the base of a melting glacier in 2022, alongside environmental activist Camille Étienne.

Music as a unifying force

Philosopher Marianne Durano draws on Plato’s ideas, suggesting that music has the power to shape the soul and create unity among people. Plato argued that rhythm and harmony are uniquely suited to influence the inner self, making music a powerful educational and political tool.

Students critique the education system

The students criticized the current school system for fostering competition and isolation, exacerbated by digital tools like Parcoursup and Pronote, which they feel dehumanize the teaching process. Their protest through music challenges stereotypes of youth as disengaged and culturally limited.

Music’s role in public spaces

Art, especially music, continues to draw crowds to public spaces, creating a dynamic political environment where ideas and emotions are shared. The Orchestre philharmonique du Nouveau Monde has a history of using music to engage with social issues, from climate change to education reform.

Plato’s warning on democracy

Plato warned that when education is neglected, democracy can lead to a society driven by unchecked desires and passions. He described how this can lead to frustration, chaos, and ultimately, tyranny, as individuals struggle to balance their needs and wants.

Education as a solution

According to Plato, a virtuous society must teach its citizens to control their desires rather than be driven by them. Education, as emphasized in The Republic, is crucial for developing intelligence and taste, enabling individuals to resist the temptations of greed and violence.