Can we live without fear today?

History has not ended. If there were any doubts, the last four years have wiped away any illusion. War has returned to Europe, with old and new imperialisms inflaming their rhetoric day after day. Globalisation is no longer perceived as an inescapable happy outcome. Even the ethic of capitalism is no longer attractive to the younger generations.

Old ideologies are coming back, accompanied by an exacerbation of culture wars. Social cohesion seems on the verge of collapsing, with a worsening of the economic gap, and a radicalisation of the conflict between different factions, cultures, and generations. Technology and social media often do not help, and many people are entrapped in bubbles filled with anger and loneliness, no longer understanding each other. 

Mental health has deteriorated to a tipping point, especially among the young. The natural world looks like a house that we ourselves continue to set on fire. Most certainties about the nature of human beings and human society are under question or conversely are upheld with a resentment that often betrays inner fears and doubts, or a stubborn lack of realism.

These challenges overwhelm many. Some look for ways to escape reality. Some pursue a total individualism. And others put their faith in ideologies which can lead to hatred, violence and polarisation.

A different way?

Are there any other ways? Is it possible to look at reality in the face, with no illusions or delusions, but at the same time with hope and curiosity, and a desire to understand, know and learn? Is it possible to live in the present, without idolising or forgetting the past, without demonising or trying to control the future? Can we remain ourselves, and yet be open to change? Can one live these challenging times with a clear identity, but at the same time be keen to reach and learn from others? Do we really need to choose between fragmentation and homogeneity, between tradition and change, between individual and community, between truth and freedom?

Convergence - Oxford 2024 intends to offer a common space for everyone who has the desire to walk this different way. A space of convergence, where different paths can come together on our journey to understanding our complex reality. .

We have identified five pressing challenges of our contemporary times, which we want to address with intellectual courage, together with people from different backgrounds. With the hope that comes from certainty in a few great things, but being ready to deepen and develop our beliefs - like a tree with firm roots that branches out into the world, growing on the air and light that surrounds it. Because without growth there is no life, and we want to live without fear in this age of uncertainty.