In his new book “Geopolitique de comptoir. How to respond to preconceived ideas, fantasies, and clichés about the world” (Eyrolles), the political scientist dismantles 110 clichés in less than 150 pages. Cutting-edge.
How much longer will the war in Ukraine last? Does Trump have an exit plan in Iran? Is he invisible or just crazy? These questions cross everyone’s mind, with family, colleagues, or at a local bar. Bruno Tertrais more often than not has the answers. Columnist at Le Point, deputy director of the Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS), prolific author, he is one of the compasses of French geopolitics. One of those questioned when the world goes haywire.
To debunk misconceptions, Tertrais relies on facts, figures, and history. Global disorder, war in Ukraine, in the Middle East, nuclear threat, conflicts of the future—nothing is avoided. Not even the topics that stoke passions. On the alleged “genocide” in Gaza, he is firm: “Reasonable statement.” Sometimes, he takes the time to delve into the recent decades to shed light on his argument, especially when he wonders if France is hit by terrorism due to its foreign policy.
But most of the time, a paragraph is enough for him to demolish a theory—like the far-fetched one of the announced decline of the United States. Even better, a simple sentence to explain that the vast expanse of Russian territory is not an obstacle to establishing a democracy. Author’s response: “Canada, the second-largest country in the world, would like to have a say.”
Bruno Tertrais, who in 2025 authored a new edition of “What do I know about? The War,” wields conciseness as a precision weapon. In the preface, he confesses to wanting to create a “short work, both entertaining and serious, intended to arm the reader in the debates he may have in his personal or professional life, at dinner parties as well as at the university.” Mission accomplished. His book allows novices to shine in society or at least avoid babbling nonsense. It also serves to silence propagators of conspiracy theories. Next time a relative, friend, bar regular—or even a presidential candidate—claims that all these wars are “just about gas pipelines and pipelines,” don’t get upset. Hand them the book. And open it to page 37.
