A former director of the École normale supérieure from 2005 to 2012, she has been president of Paris Sciences et Lettres – Quartier latin, a French higher education and research institution, since 2012.

Her work in ancient philosophy is centred on ethical theory and epistemology; she has published several commented translations of Plato (Gorgias, Ion, Euthydème, Ménon) and various books.

She has introduced the practice of scientific advisory committees in humanities and social sciences departments, created an International Council for Strategic Orientation, developed a specific ENS Diploma and started a rehabilitation of research spaces.

Her works stress the practical life enhancing aspect of moral philosophy using examples from the arts and literature.

Recent books such as L'Idée de guerre juste and La Morale du monde offer her vision of international relations.