“An idea that is not dangerous is unworthy of being called an idea at all,” said that witty warrior of a wordsmith, Oscar Wilde. And given the tragedy of the inimitable Irish writer’s downfall, brought on by an unwise libel case that backfired spectacularly, few could have felt that withering wisdom more keenly.
It’s fitting, then, that Sydney's Festival of Dangerous Ideas (FODI) borrows the phrase for its sassy title. The celebration of system shaking bright minds returns to Carriageworks this August for two huge days jam-packed with 87 speakers and artists, including 16 international guests, appearing across 88 sessions. FODI's festival director Danielle Harvey talked us through the most exciting events and immersive art to explore over here.
Presented by The Ethics Centre from August 24–25, expect a lineup that is *a lot*. The festival is all about celebrating those willing to bring down the house with the sort of stuff others fear to say, and what better guest than the renowned New York Times-bestselling author and social commentator Roxane Gay, who was announced as the first guest coming to FODI.
Recommended: We caught up with Roxane Gay ahead of her appearance in Sydney.
The rest of the program includes spicy talks from the likes of Megan Phelps-Roper, host of the provocative documentary podcast The Witch Trials of JK Rowling, along with producer Andy Mills, to reflect on what the series achieved and what remains elusive. There's also the “Internet’s OB/GYN” Jen Gunter who will speak on the taboos surrounding women's health; while South African philosopher David Benatar argues the case for not having children.
As well talks, there’s set to be an array of out-of-the-box events including the return of the popular Circle of Chairs, where you can unpick modern life’s most dangerous ethical dilemmas with leading philosophers; an art installation called ‘Tape’, that invites you to crawl through a suspended cocoon made entirely from sticky tape, by artists Numen / For Use; and even an intimate phone-free dinner function where you have the chance to dine with some of the festival speakers dubbed The Last Supper (don't dawdle, this is tipped to sell out).
If you’re dead set against feeling uncomfortable, challenged or provoked, maybe stay at home. But if you’re up to it, head on down to Carriageworks for what’s sure to be a weekend that’s both incendiary and inspiring in equal measure.
Check out the full program and grab your tickets here. Select sessions will be available to stream, with livestream tickets on sale in August.