The Anticonformist: An Intellectual Autobiography

A biography is a complicated exercise, especially when the subject is still alive. An autobiography is even more so, since the reader suspects a self-justification is inevitable. Luc Ferry's *The Anticonformist* fits neither one nor the other. This is probably the first autobiography in which thought is the main subject. The interviews with Alexandra Laignel-Lavastine are a formidable intellectual epic that helps the reader better understand what is at stake in today's debates. Luc Ferry dares not follow the beaten path of contemporary ideals, taking the more difficult paths of courage, truth, and justice. Without belonging to any clan, he positions himself at the confluence of all currents, comfortable speaking about his actions and his theories, having always exposed himself to the clashes of thought and action. Beyond religious commitment, his vision of a transcendent ethic for our society brings a breath of hope to the planet. Ferry's work has long led people to question the possible salvation of philosophy. Now, in his definitive book, he shows the need for a libertarian and anti-totalitarian spirit for this to happen. The anti-conformist presents an intellectual with a transcendental ethic for our society and who carries a breath of hope for the future of the planet. "A frank and necessary read." - L'Express