majonéisme

Majonéisme is a neologism that emerged in France during the 1990s, primarily associated with the writer and cultural critic Jean-François Revel. It refers to a perceived intellectual and cultural tendency characterized by a pervasive skepticism, often bordering on cynicism, towards established institutions, traditions, and grand narratives. The term is often used to describe a critical stance that questions authority, ideology, and even the possibility of objective truth.

The proponents of Majonéisme, as interpreted by Revel and others, are seen as individuals who delight in deconstruction and the dismantling of prevailing ideas. This intellectual approach can manifest in various fields, including literature, philosophy, politics, and social commentary. The "majonéisme" can be understood as a form of intellectual disillusionment, a reaction against what is perceived as excessive idealism or dogma. It emphasizes doubt and a refusal to accept simplistic or overly optimistic explanations.

While the term itself is not widely used outside of certain intellectual circles, the underlying sentiment it describes has been a recurring theme in critical discourse. It can be seen as a manifestation of post-modern thought, with its emphasis on relativism and the critique of universal truths. However, the term "Majonéisme" often carries a slightly pejorative connotation, implying an unproductive or overly negative intellectual posture. It suggests a tendency to criticize without offering constructive alternatives.