Simone Weil: Secularism and Syncretism
Publication Type |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication |
2005 |
Author |
|
Journal |
The Journal of the Historical Society |
Volume |
5 |
Number |
2 |
Pages |
203-225 |
Work Type |
Historical Political Science |
Language |
English |
Publish Dates |
Spring |
Keywords |
|
Annotation |
Kennedy presents a brief overview of Weil’s life in conjunction with the specific aspects of her thought developed at particular points in time. He begins with her early life, especially the genesis of her ‘secular theism’ and the influence of her teacher Alain (Emile Chartier) on the development of her philosophy. He then turns to her political-social activism, including her factory work, her views of war, and relationship with communism. The influence of early Greek thought is considered, especially in relation to her ‘syncretist secularism’. He follows this discussion with a presentation of Weil's views on the roots of totalitarianism. Weil’s complex relationship with the Christian religion is next considered with Kennedy arguing Weil united the ‘secular and religious’ worlds in her life and thought. |