The Dan David Prize covers three time dimensions - Past, Present and Future - that represent realms of human achievement. Each year the International Board chooses one field within each time dimension. Following a review process by independent Review Commitees comprised of renowned scholars and professionals, the International Board then chooses the laureates for each field.
The Past refers to fields that expand knowledge of former times.
The Present recognizes achievements that shape and enrich society today.
The Future focuses on breakthroughs that hold great promise for improvement of our world.
Michel Serres was awarded the prize in the "Present" category as an acknowledgement of the influence he has had on contemporary society. In particular, the role of public intellectuals whose philosophical reflection and engagement promote greater well-being, is associated with this category. Michel Serres has certainly filled this role admirably as he has challenged us to deeper thought about the meaning of technology, communications, contracts, academic and research silos, as well as the propensity for violence and exclusion that many modern systems exhibit.
His work has not only been a critique of where we are failing, it has also caused us to consider hopeful directions such as the potential that a more synthetic frame of mind contains for our future well-being. Congratulations from the many of us who have been inspired by your long decades of toil and the risks you have been willing to take to bring meaning back into our contemplations.
