In this interview, legendary mathematician Alexandre Grothendieck speaks as a representative of "Survivre", an international and interprofessional movement started by scientists to tackle the interconnected ecological and political crises facing our world. Grothendieck offers a radical critique of "scientism," warning that it has replaced traditional religions to become one of the most powerful and negative ideological forces today. He explains how scientism acts as a hidden, common foundation for seemingly contradictory systems, from private capitalism to Soviet state capitalism and official Chinese ideologies

Rather than relying on top-down political structures or simply swapping a right-wing government for a left-wing one, Grothendieck argues for a deep ethical transformation and a complete change in how human beings relate to one another. He highlights the importance of decentralization and praises the formation of small, local groups operating on the margins of modern society. Through constructive experiments like forming communities and practicing organic farming, he believes we can begin building a new way of life.

Relevant readings: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Survivre_et_vivre