In the 19th century, a strange figure fueled the tales of travelers climbing the mountains of Switzerland: the «Alpine cretin». Whether a folk monster or the object of medical interest, his story reveals much more than a simple health phenomenon.
At least since the 18th century and Voltaire's sojourns in Lausanne and Geneva, the Lake Geneva region has been a haven for many intellectuals, attracted by its peaceful political climate and the prospect of a relaxing life.
Every month, former Federal Councillor Pascal Couchepin shares a piece of reading that has struck a chord with him.
Major entrepreneurs played a direct role in building the federal state born in 1848. These economic figures subsequently became rarer, often giving way to the leaders of employers' associations. An evolution that has left its mark.
Saint Patrick's College, near Dublin, has spanned more than two centuries of Irish history. The destiny of this unique Catholic institution reveals a past marked by political and religious conflict.
In his new book «Pax atomica?», based on thirty years of experience, demographer Bruno Tertrais retraces the history of the nuclear bomb and defends the idea that it has been and will remain a factor of peace between states... With a few nuances.
Many studies of the reign of Frederick II, King of Prussia from 1740 to 1786, emphasize the authoritarian nature of the regime he led. To leave it at that, however, would be to overlook the liberal orientation of the political writings of this «enlightened despot».
Self-confident yet beset by doubts, Alexis de Tocqueville was a paradoxical man. In his biography, Olivier Zunz, Professor Emeritus of U.S. History at the University of Virginia, demonstrates the relevance of the author of the seminal book «Democracy in America».
«While the 16th century was marked by great geographical discoveries, the 17th century saw the beginnings of globalization.» Every month, former Federal Councilor Pascal Couchepin shares a book that has resonated with him.
French 
German
English
