Common Questions is a series of 10 questions for 10 artists from this year’s programme of the Zurich Theater Spektakel. It brings together 10 perspectives on how we can think about and shape democracy and assembly today. The responses open up personal, political and artistic perspectives on how we live together, on public space, responsibility, and the possibilities of collective action.
The next 10 answers come from Toronto, from Jason Stanley. The American philosopher will be a guest this year at Talking on Water and at Die Allianz der letzten Demokratien.
1. When do you feel most part of a «we»?
Jason When no one is being excluded.
2. Do you trust the majority?
Jason Liberal democracy is a system that is as much about minorities as it is about the majority. It is a system designed to protect minorities from the tyranny of the majority.
3. Do you take democracy for granted, and if not, was there a specific turning point?
Jason I have always known that democracy is fragile.
4. What makes a gathering meaningful to you?
Jason When there are people of different races and religions present.
5. What do you fear losing in our society?
Jason Hope for the future
6. What is your own contribution to democratic society?
Jason My contribution is to warn.
7. Is democracy good for everyone?
Jason Freedom is good for everyone. Tyranny is bad for everyone, and especially for the tyrant.
8. Have you ever changed your mind because of a public discussion?
Jason Obviously.
9. Are you actively resisting? And if so, what’s one thing we should all do?
Jason The billionaires are trying to make you hate the stranger, to distract you from their destruction of our collective future.
Refuse to hate the stranger.
Protect those who are targeted as scapegoats in any way you can: Shop at their establishments, go to their restaurants, show up at their celebrations with joy.
Remind them that they are your neighbors.
10. What was the last news that made you happy?
Jason When the New York Knicks won the NBA Championships.
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What question should be asked here, but isn’t?
Jason If Switzerland joins the global far right movement, what will people think of the Swiss?
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Credits
Foto: © Sally Lee