my colleague at BIG O, who was educated in the good tradition of french sociology (e.g. pierre bourdieu) once said to me: what we really miss in the political life in france is an intelligent system of conflict resolution.

public transportation for instance. paris again faced strikes of most of the lines (bus, metro, rer) yesterday and the day before. but: we are used to it and even like these days. lots of people stay at home or come late, pretending that their line was a complete mess. there is also the option to go to work: and even in a more comfortable way than usual. Maybe it takes more time but you are able to get a seat in a half full metro. nobody is pushing you around. the staff is more friendly and polite in order not to loose the rest of sympathy. strike is just a break in the daily routine. but is it really a political action nowadays in france?

anyway, this time it seemed to be more serious than usual. the final of the rugby championship seemed to be in danger. my other colleague knew better: there is never a strike on saturday, she told me. well, good to know .......