Colloque International de Théories Variationnelles (CITV) 2024

He has left us not solely a master piece of scientific work through his treatises on dynamical systems, relativity and quantum mechanics but Jean-Marie Souriau  –the professor and the human person–  has also given us a sound philosophical vision of the world through his last book, “Grammaire de la nature”.

Originally founded in 1956 by Jean-Marie Souriau, his doctoral students and friends, re-launched by Claude Vallée in 1996, the Colloquium entitled “Colloque International de Théories Variationnelles” (CITV) provides today an informal setting to present and discuss the state-of-the-art and the most recent findings concerning Mathematics, Physics, Mechanics and their interactions.

Every year during a week, the CITV brings together a small group of participants hoping to work within the founder’s spirit. In marked contrast to standard Colloquia, the CITV’s style is completely informal:

-        The schedule is prepared day-to-day and, if necessary, the talk durations may be adjusted under way.

-        Preference is given to present ideas on the blackboard even if modern video presentations are also allowed.

-        Emphasis is put on scientific maturity and creative ideas as opposed to technicalities.

-        A large time is devoted to questions, discussion and exchange of ideas.

-        The spectrum of topics being very broad, a special attention is paid to present advanced concepts in simple terms for people with strong scientific background but the non-specialists of the topic.

-        The oral transmission of the knowledge is preferred –but not opposed– to modern communication based on paper publication.

-        Epistemological talks are sometimes given in the evening and also open to accompanying persons.

-        The social program is not reserved for accompanying persons but convivial interludes are scheduled in the afternoon for scientific participants sharing cultural visits and excursions with them.