Can we have a new democratic enlightenment? : Rousseau´s ideas in contemporary societies and prospects of modern direct democracy

”The sovereign cannot be represented, divided or broken up in anyway” wrote Rousseau in The Social Contract. Rousseau is often seen as a reference for a political system characterized by direct democratic mechanisms. At the same time, the French republican tradition considered him as a source of inspiration with the definition of the general interest. The presentation will be a dialogue between Bruno Kaufmann and Christophe Premat about the modern concepts of Rousseau´s works. Rousseau referred to provinces where democratic tools were experienced such as Corsica or Poland. The first part of the presentation will sketch a theoretical background of Rousseau´s thought whereas the second part will introduce the hidden heritage of Rousseau by comparing his views on direct democratic tools with modern political systems. How can we get back to empowered citizens? Do we need to have a new democratic revolution to avoid the tendency to transfer sovereignty to a small group of people acting for the others