Sudden fragility

In our hyper-technological, hyper-connected, and performance-driven society, nothing jars quite like fragility. Yet, fragility is a fact of life.
Our existence—both individual and collective—constantly reveals contradictions and limitations: illness, economic crises, poverty, violence, relationship struggles, fear, and depression.
Despite their daily presence, we risk viewing them merely as bumps in the road, ultimately downplaying or sidelining them.
However, it is possible to reimagine reality precisely by starting from these limitations: a more humane politics, economy, and culture place fragility at the center, ensuring that everyone is truly a citizen and genuinely welcomed.

In this special feature, we discuss this with journalist and television critic Alessandra Comazzi, who shares the story of the sudden illness that changed her life—a valuable testimony that resonates with the journeys we all might face. We also explore the work of the Sermig Fraternity and the stories of welcome at the *Arsenale dell’Armonia* in Pecetto Torinese—stories of young people who, despite being severely affected by illness, found a community capable of supporting them through their healing process. Finally, we speak with Gianfranco Cattai about the "civil economy" as a response to the extreme logic of profit, which often ignores inequality and poverty.

Editorial Staff
Focus
NP March 2026