Directeur Herman Westerink met de microfoon wijst de zaal in
Directeur Herman Westerink met de microfoon wijst de zaal in

Great interest in symposium on Simone Weil

What makes the thought of Simone Weil (1909–1943) so relevant today? That question lay at the heart of the symposium Simone Weil: Between Mysticism and Politics, organised by the Titus Brandsma Institute (TBI) on Friday 19 June. Interest in the event was remarkably high. According to TBI Director and chair of the day Herman Westerink, “Almost 120 people registered, and even the waiting list was full.” This growing interest reflects a broader rediscovery of Weil’s work, with several of her writings having been newly translated and republished in recent years.

Simone Weil lived through a period marked by war, violence and political polarisation. In her writings, she sought answers to fundamental questions about power, justice and human dignity, bringing together social engagement and a deeply mystical perspective. Many consider this combination strikingly relevant at a time of increasing social unrest and political division.

Throughout the symposium, speakers from the fields of philosophy, theology and political theory explored the significance of Simone Weil’s thought for contemporary society. Topics included mysticism, attention, political responsibility, violence, justice, and the relationship between religion and society.

Herman Westerink loopt in de zaal en houdt de microfoon bij iemand uit het publiek

With this symposium, the Titus Brandsma Institute highlighted that Simone Weil is not only an important twentieth-century thinker, but also an inspiring conversation partner for contemporary questions concerning spirituality, democracy and our shared humanity. Her call to practise attentive presence towards others and to resist dehumanisation continues to resonate strongly with audiences today.

Contact information

Organizational unit
Titus Brandsma Institute
Theme
Ethics, Philosophy, History, Religion