Whereof one cannot speak . . . But should try to

Abstract

The multiplicity of voices reflecting on the actual crisis shows that we are not look-ing at extreme dichotomies but are rather facing the coexistence of contradictory elements, or elements in tension, or a state of paradox. The essay tries to list these contradictory elements-newness or repetition? solidarity or egoism? local or global? private or public? democratic or autocratic outcome? nature or culture?-in an attempt to organize the current perplexity.