Protests, demonstrations, riots, strikes; unrest, disobedience, condemnation — protest activity has never been this intense. How did we get here? What circumstances have sparked such fury in life and on social media?

The causes of rebellion are linked to deviations from liberalism, chosen as the sole political model: increasing inequality, worsening working conditions, reduction of public services, political scandals. However, the violence humanity faces today is unprecedented because it is expressed through a new subject: the individual-tyrant.

From birth, this new individual is familiar with the latest technological advancements, has access to the internet and smartphones, and is shaken by the digital revolution (apps that give the impression the world is at our feet, social networks where my word is as valuable as anyone's). This new person believes they can influence the course of events.

In his brilliant essay, Éric Sadin provides a tragically accurate analysis of the collapse of our shared world, aiming to rethink the conditions of a social contract capable of holding us together.

Éric Sadin (b. 1973) is a French writer and philosopher, one of the leading interpreters of digital civilization. He lectures worldwide, and his books have been translated into several languages.