Tzvetan Todorov: A Commitment to Cultural Respect and Understanding

An Insightful Critique of Essentialism in Nationalism and Thought

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Immigration, foreigners, and foreign cultures are very popular topics these days. We all talk about them at some point, whether over dinner, with friends over a beer (or coffee, I don’t drink beer), or in more formal settings.

What's more, these are not just popular topics. They are politically charged and sensitive topics which most of us have very strong opinions about. However, as with many philosophical topics, most people who talk about them do not know the history behind the things that still shape our views today.

Many intellectuals have denounced such ill-formed opinions. One of the most interesting is (1939-2017). Tzvetan Todorov’s views were strongly influenced by his experiences growing up in communist Bulgaria, his decision to leave his country as a young man, as well as his experience as an immigrant in France.

Today, I would like to introduce you to this important figure of the French-speaking intellectual world and his political views. I will do this by, first, presenting his life. Then, I will discuss his theory of our relationship with ‘others’ (les autres) and the sense of belonging.