Simone Weil on Colonialism
An Ethic of the Other
Simone Weil author J P Little translator
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Rowman & Littlefield
Published:24th Jun '03
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The collection features the complete writings of Simone Weil on colonialism, revealing her critical insights into France's oppressive practices.
This volume presents the complete writings of the renowned twentieth-century French philosopher Simone Weil on the topic of colonialism, translated into English for the first time. It highlights her profound engagement with the French colonial situation, which began after she read an eye-opening article by Louis Roubaud in 1931. This article detailed the Yen Bay massacre in Indochina, prompting Weil to critically examine the contradiction between France's self-proclaimed status as a champion of human rights and its oppressive actions in its colonies.
Throughout her life, from that pivotal moment until her death in exile in 1943, Weil passionately addressed the injustices faced by colonized peoples. She penned thirteen articles and letters, originally published in various French journals and collections, that reflect her deep concern for the plight of those affected by colonialism. These writings reveal her unwavering commitment to social justice and her critical perspective on the moral failings of her own country.
Simone Weil on Colonialism serves as a crucial resource for English-speaking scholars and students, thanks to J. P. Little's fluid translations. This collection not only sheds light on Weil's political consciousness but also invites readers to reflect on the enduring implications of colonialism in contemporary society.
For anyone who wants to reflect on the nature and evils of colonialism and on the morality of colonising the 'other,' Weil's writings continue to provide much food for thought. * Itinerario *
It is now perhaps a commonplace to remark that the 'postcolonial turn' in arts and humanities research has had major impact on what is read and how we read. There is need however, to consider the more complex process of assessment, reassessment and reconfiguration that such an observation conceals….Pat Little's welcome edition of Simone Weil's fragmented writings on colonialism represents an invaluable-and for many perhaps unexpected-addition to these studies in colonial thought and culture….The volume includes a clear and full introduction, the critical apparatus (prefatory notes to each of the individual texts, and full endnotes) is exemplary, and four valuable appendices include excerpts from those texts by Roubard, Londres, Challaye and Dermenghem that seem to have had a major impact on Weil's thought. Simone Weil on Colonialism offers essential source material. It will allow an audience within and beyond French studies to explore the issues that emerge from Weil's engagement with the French empire. -- Charles Forsdick, Univeristy of Liverpool * International Journal Of Francophone Studies *
This excellent collection shows the breadth of Simone Weil's anticolonial writings. . . . Appendixes, chronologies, and a select bibliography enhance a collection that contributes to understanding elements of French anticolonialism in the 1930s. Highly recommended. * CHOICE *
ISBN: 9780742522831
Dimensions: 228mm x 148mm x 14mm
Weight: 331g
256 pages