De la violence au totalitarisme, published by Calmann-Lévy in 1972, marked an early contribution to political philosophy for Éric Werner. Born in 1940, the Swiss academic and journalist developed a body of work examining systems of power, democratic decline, and ideological structures while maintaining a career within the University of Geneva and the Grand Council of the canton of Vaud.
Academic and Political Formation
Werner pursued his formal education at the Institut d'Études Politiques de Paris, commonly known as Sciences Po. This period of study provided the foundation for his later work as a political scientist and philosopher. In his home country, he balanced intellectual production with public service, notably serving as a member of the Grand Council of the canton of Vaud.
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His bibliography reflects a focus on political philosophy, beginning with his 1972 analysis of violence and totalitarianism. Throughout the following decades, he released numerous works through publishers including L'Âge d'Homme and Thaël. Notable titles such as L'Après-démocratie, published in 2001, and L'Avant-guerre civile, released in 1999, examine societal shifts. His 1986 text, Le système de trahison, and his 1996 study, Montaigne stratège, highlight his engagement with historical and strategic thought.
Later Writings and Institutional Career
As a retired professor from the University of Geneva, Werner continued to publish works addressing the nature of contemporary regimes. His later titles, such as the 2006 La Maison de servitude and the 2008 publication Ne vous approchez pas des fenêtres: Indiscrétions sur la nature réelle du régime, demonstrate his ongoing preoccupation with the mechanisms of governance. He remains active as an essayist, contributing to the discourse surrounding political systems.
Fast facts
- Born: 1940
- Nationality: Switzerland
- Alma Mater: Sciences Po
- Primary Fields: Philosophy, Political Philosophy
- Institutional Affiliation: University of Geneva
- Political Position: Member of the Grand Council of the canton of Vaud
- Language: French
Questions readers ask
Where did Éric Werner receive his education?
He studied at the Institut d'Études Politiques de Paris, also known as Sciences Po.
What subjects does Werner focus on in his writing?
His work concentrates on philosophy and political philosophy, particularly the study of democratic systems, totalitarianism, and institutional power.
Achievements
- Held posts at University of Geneva
- Fields: philosophy and political philosophy
