How Does Agriculture Influence Your Thinking?

The Rice Culture Theory?
In 2014, researcher Thomas Talhelm shook up scientific debates with a bold theory: the differences between collectivist and individualist societies could be explained by... the cultivated food!
Published in the prestigious journal Science, this hypothesis ignited academic discussions.
On the agenda:

1. Participatory Activity
   You will be invited to experiment with the sociogram, a method of schematic representation of social circles presented in the video. This tool is central to the thesis that our degree of individualism is inherited from the agricultural practices of our ancestors.

2. Screening
   We will dive into the heart of Thomas Talhelm's theory: his method, his conclusions, and especially his limitations. Through animated images and staged dialogues, we will confront Thomas Talhelm's ideas with those of other theorists who have also sought the origins of our collective behaviors in the environment.

3. Exchange Time
   Jules, co-author of the video and research engineer, will lead a discussion on the influence of the environment on social norms, as well as the challenges of research in social sciences. Emma Labbé, graphic designer and facilitator, will talk about historical references and representation choices for abstract terms like "society" or "collectivism." Finally, you will be invited to share your analyses of the strengths and limitations of the video essay; this exchange will guide the writing of our future art and science productions.
   Looking forward to seeing you there!

Find all practical information and plan your visit.