Sophrosune is the Greek term for moderation.
Sophrosune means keeping a reasonable perspective. We live in a world that is growing ever more complicated and changing fast. Seven billion people on our planet wake up every day to pursue their lives. Seven billion people have their own hopes and dreams, problems and fears. Each of us has been born into a family, a society, a language and a culture. Is it surprising we all have our own story of the same reality?
Sophrosune is an attempt at understanding this world. In recent years the world has gone through a number of important changes. Due to the rise of developing countries, in particular China, the West is no longer as globally dominant as it was a generation ago. In the Middle East and beyond, Islam is going through an identity crisis that has a profound impact on several of the world’s regions. Finally, the recent global economic crisis has weakened the middle classes in the West and fostered a identity discourse that is reminiscent of the aftermath of the 1929 crisis.
Sophrosune offers a place where ideas can be moderated through respectful discussion based on solid evidence. We are all human beings. We all have our own story to tell. In all this diversity, however, some things cannot be right and others manifestly are for all of us. For all the diversity of impressions of the blind sages sitting around the elephant, there is still the elephant. Some would like to confuse or deceive us. In this world of change, indeed, many certainties and preconceptions may stand in need of revision. It does not mean irrationality and madness can take over. It calls for discussion.
So, if you want to join with me in talking about the themes that touch my heart, I would be glad to listen to your comments and critiques. Through this sophrosune perhaps we can plan to make this world a better place.