Three Parisians with different dreams and backgrounds become close friends as they struggle with the trials of life.  Prof. Henri Laborit uses the stories to discuss behaviorist theories of survival, combat, rewards and punishment, and anxiety.  René is a technical manager at a textile factory and must face the anxiety caused by corporate downsizing.  Janine is a self-educated actress/stylist who learns that the wife of her lover is dying and must decide to let them reunite. Jean is a controversial career-climbing writer/politician at a crossroads in life.