Bertrand DeJouvenel, full name Bertrand de Jouvenel des Ursins, was a French political philosopher, economist, and futurist. He was born on October 31, 1903, in Paris, France, and passed away on March 1, 1987.

DeJouvenel was known for his work in political theory, particularly his ideas on power and the role of the state. He was critical of both communism and capitalism, advocating for a decentralized society with a limited government that respects individual liberties.

One of DeJouvenel's most influential works is his book "On Power: Its Nature and the History of Its Growth," published in 1945. In this book, he explored the concept of power, its origins, and its impact on society. He argued that power tends to centralize and accumulate, posing a threat to individual freedom and social harmony.

DeJouvenel's ideas on the importance of decentralization and the dangers of unchecked power were influential in the development of political and economic thought. He was associated with the school of thought known as the "liberalism of fear," which emphasizes the need for institutions and systems that protect individuals from arbitrary power.

Overall, Bertrand DeJouvenel made significant contributions to political philosophy and his work continues to be studied and debated by scholars today.

Key Themes

Bertrand DeJouvenel focused on several major themes throughout his work. Here are some of the key themes that can be found in his writings:

Power and Centralization: DeJouvenel was deeply concerned with the nature of power and its tendency to centralize and accumulate. He argued that power has a natural inclination to expand, leading to the concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals or institutions. DeJouvenel emphasized the need to limit and decentralize power to protect individual liberties and prevent the abuse of authority.
- The High-Low vs Middle Dynamic

Individual Liberty: DeJouvenel strongly advocated for individual liberty as a fundamental value. He believed that a society should be organized in a way that maximizes individual freedom while also ensuring social order. DeJouvenel warned against the encroachment of the state on individual liberties and the dangers of an overreaching government.

Decentralization and Subsidiarity: Building on his concern about power concentration, DeJouvenel emphasized the importance of decentralization and subsidiarity. He argued that decision-making power should be distributed as widely as possible, with decisions made at the most local level feasible. This approach allows for greater participation, accountability, and responsiveness to the needs of individuals and communities.

Market Economy and Planning: DeJouvenel engaged in debates about the merits of market economies and centralized planning. While he recognized the benefits of market mechanisms in promoting efficiency and innovation, he also acknowledged the need for some degree of economic planning to address social and environmental concerns. He advocated for a balanced approach that combines market forces with appropriate regulations to ensure social welfare.

Futurism and Technological Change: DeJouvenel was interested in the impact of technological advancements and future developments on society. He explored the potential consequences of technological progress, particularly in relation to power dynamics and individual freedom. DeJouvenel urged careful consideration of the societal implications of new technologies and the need to safeguard human values in the face of rapid change.

These themes demonstrate DeJouvenel's concerns about the concentration of power, the protection of individual liberties, the importance of decentralized decision-making, the role of markets and planning, and the impact of technological progress. His works reflect a commitment to ensuring a society that balances freedom, social order, and human well-being.

Major Works

• On Power: Its Nature and the History of Its Growth, 1945

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