Fall into Books: Why Are We Disenchanted? The States of the Earth

Saturday, October 26, 2024 From 10:00 AM To 11:00 AM Add to Calendar 2024-10-26 10:00:00 2024-10-26 11:00:00 Fall into Books: Why Are We Disenchanted? The States of the Earth Join us for an engaging discussion with philosopher and professor Mohamed Amer Meziane as he presents his book The States of the Earth. The French Library, 53 Marlborough St, Boston, Massachusetts, United States America/New_York

At The French Library Get Directions

Philosopher, performer, and professor, Mohamed Amer Meziane will present his book The States of the Earth, offering a rereading of the history of Western modernity during the 19th century through the lenses of both its colonial matrix and its environmental consequences. In a world where material technology was considered divine, religious and secular forces both tried to achieve Heaven on Earth by destroying Earth itself.

The author will be interviewed by Marisa Mazria Katz, journalist, producer, editor at the New York Times, and there will be an opportunity for audience Q&A. .

Language: English .

This is a free event, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Featured Authors

Mohamed Amer Meziane is a philosopher and Albertine Prize winner for non-fiction. In The States of the Earth: An Ecological and Racial History of Secularization (Verso, 2024), Meziane challenges conventional views on secularization, empire, and their impact on the world. He offers a fresh perspective on how these forces have shaped modern history. Far from defending religion, Meziane reveals how both religious and secular powers, driven by material gain, contributed to today’s ecological crises, offering a bold rethinking of the forces that have shaped the world we live in today.

Moderated by Marisa Mazria Katz a journalist whose work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Atlantic. She specializes in covering art, culture, and human rights, and has led international cultural initiatives. Talk: 10:00 – 11:00 AM | Book Signing: Following the talk

This event is co-presented with Villa Albertine Boston and the Boston Book Festival.

The French Library is proud to continue its longstanding collaboration with Villa Albertine Boston, alongside the Boston Book Festival. This year’s event promises to be especially exciting, as we welcome a record number of Francophone authors to our stage.

Upcoming Events

See All Upcoming Events

Social & Community

La Pause Café

Friday, April 17, 2026

Join us for "La Pause Café”, a DROP-IN activity for you to practice your French skills, immerse yourself in stimulating conversations, and make new friends.