Description
Book SynopsisRichard H. Bell analyzes the social and political thought of Simone Weil, paying particular attention to Weil''s concept of justice as compassion. Bell describes the ways in which Weil''s concept of justice stands in contrast with liberal ''rights-based'' views of justice, and focuses upon central aspects of Weil''s thought, including ''attention,'' human suffering and ''affliction,'' and the importance of ''a spiritual way of life'' in reshaping the individual''s role in civic life. Simone Weil: The Way of Justice as Compassion is a valuable addition to the scholarship on this important thinker and a necessary book for students and scholars of political theory and philosophical moral thought.
Trade ReviewBell [recognizes] the marginal position and the challenge that Weil's unique mode of thinking presents to contemporary social discourse. -- Mary G. Dietz, University of Minnesota * American Political Science Review *
Bell offers a clear, crisp version of justice that emphasizes how justice depends more on compassion than on observing rules and procedures. -- Eloise A. Buker, Denison University * Journal of Religion, April-June 2000 *
...exceptionally good addition to the growing scholarship concerned with the life and contribution of French philosopher-activist Simone Weil. * Journal of the American Academy of Religion *
A fine and sensitive contribution to the growing literature on Simone Weil's moral and political thought. It is also a distinctive and helpful one. . . . Interesting and relevant. . . . Highly readable. -- E.O. Springsted, Princeton Theological Seminary * CHOICE, Feb. 99 *
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Abbreviations for Simone Weil's Works Cited in Text Chapter 2 Preface Chapter 3 Acknowledgements Chapter 4 How Simone Weil Thinks: Time, Method, and Morality Chapter 5 "The Secrets of the Human Condition": Power, Oppression, Work, and Liberty — A Brief Retrospective Chapter 6 Rethinking Justice and Rights Chapter 7 A New Virtue of Justice: Love, Friendship, and "Madness" Chapter 8 The Way of Justice as Compassion Chapter 9 Civil Society and the Law Chapter 10 Community and Politics: Human Needs and Social Obligations Chapter 11 Education and Civilization Chapter 12 Simone Weil, Post-Holocaust Judaism, and the Way of Compassion Chapter 13 Simone Weil's Way toward a "Worthy" Civilization: A Legacy for Moral and Political Practice Chapter 14 Appendix: "The Spirit of Simone Weil's Law" Chapter 15 Selected Bibliography Chapter 16 Index Chapter 17 About the Author
