deBuren

In 2007 the writer and essayist Bas Heijne published his most recent collection of essays entitled Onredelijkheid (Unreasonableness). In these essays, which were highly acclaimed, he examines the new need for identity which has now gripped the Netherlands. Postwar ideals which can be traced back to the Age of Enlightenment - a united Europe, multicultural society and secularisation - appear to have served their purpose. Instead, a desire for individuality and a small community appears to have taken possession of the Dutch people. What has caused this? 

Bas Heijne's talk will be based on the essay Onredelijkheid. This will be followed by a debate with Prof. Wim van de Donk, chairman of the World Council for Government Policy, and James Kennedy, professor of Dutch History at Amsterdam University. The mediator is Piet Piryns.