The International Philosophy Colloquia Evian provide a locus for enjoying intense philosophical discussion and philosophical company. They are meant to be different in comparison to the usual way of conducting academic conferences. These are often marked by the presentation of lenghthy papers, followed by a short period of questions addressed to the speaker by the audience. The Colloquia, by contrast, follow the goal of devoting as much time to discussions as possible. Furthermore, they aim at presenting more than just a series of isolated contributions without inner coherence. Rather, the goal is to create an ongoing, expanding common debate that spans the whole week. To this end the number of participants is restricted to 25-30.

In order to guarantee a relaxing atmosphere, the colloquium has taken place on the banks of Lake Geneva since 1997. This place provides ample possibilities to combine philosophical work with a variety of pastimes. The Centre Jean Foa with its beautiful premises right on the shores of the lake is perfectly suited for various leisure activities. You may also consider having a quick, refreshing bath in the lake. Trips to the beautiful alpine countryside around Evian round off the possibilities, and the programme of the Colloquium is designed to provide enough time for seizing at least some of them.

The Colloquia are internationally orientated. In the last years they were attended by philosophers from all continents. Thematically, they put a stress on (contemporary) French philosophy in particular and continental philosophy in general, which are discussed in the contexts of German as well as English-language philosophy. Given this orientation, the International Philosophy Colloquia Evian are meant to be a place where the divide between continental and analytic philosophy has been overcome.