Stories from France

An experiment conducted in 1990 by Nobel laureate Richard Thaler is being discussed. The experiment divided students into two groups, with one half receiving a free university-logo mug and the other receiving nothing. Thaler then asked the mug owners the price at which they would sell their mugs.

Research by Franck Bessis suggests economic theories are being misused in ministerial offices to serve electoral aims.

To mark 14 years without a trophy, the French football club Olympique de Marseille has released a special collector's jersey. The announcement was made in a satirical context.

Sociologist Michel Calon argues that the concept of 'homo economicus' is a fictional invention. He also challenges the myth of the invisible hand of the market, suggesting that market interactions are technically managed. These critiques undermine foundational economic myths.

Algerian-French economic cooperation was discussed, amidst media controversy and criticism of a judicial ruling against writer Kamel Daoud. The newspaper 'Ennahar' reported on discussions between the head of the Algerian Economic Renewal Council, Kamel Moula, and the president of the French employers' organization, Geoffroy Roux de Bézieux. They explored new avenues and strengthened economic ties between the two countries. The French Minister of Culture criticized a court ruling against a writer, as reported by Al-Ghad newspaper.

The mayor of Saint-Ouen, north of Paris, is attempting to prevent the installation of a fast-food chicken restaurant. The mayor cited the fight against unhealthy eating as the reason for his opposition. The report also mentioned prison overcrowding issues and a need for more resources for correctional officers. Saint-Ouen Mayor Karim Bouamran is targeting fast food establishments to increase city attractiveness and meet the expectations of new residents. The mayor's strategy involves a bet on gentrification that is expected to transform the city within a few years. This move is viewed as a political effort to secure future electoral success. Conversely, the La France Insoumise party views these sociological shifts and new arrivals as a threat to their territorial influence in Saint-Ouen and surrounding communes.

Former French President Valéry Giscard d'Estaing was known for his punctuality, reportedly stopping his car to ensure he arrived on time. This behavior is contrasted with individuals who struggle with time management or have difficulty structuring their lives.

Philosopher Barbara Cassin highlights the transformative power of speech, noting how words can change both the speaker and the listener. This dimension is particularly sensitive and illuminates the formative aspect of language.

French economic theory is seen as shaping the world in its own image, integrating practice into theoretical frameworks. The economy is described as constantly performing, but this carries risks as reality can assert itself forcefully against theorists. This perspective was explored by Nicolas Brisset.

French philosopher John Austin's concept of performativity is being discussed, suggesting that economic theory shapes the world in its own image. This integration of practice into theory carries risks, as reality can sometimes violently assert itself against theorists. The discussion explores how the economy constantly performs.