Reflections on the Causes of Freedom and Social Oppression

Argumentatively concise and intellectually subtle, these writings from the latter half of 1934 form the overlooked core of the literary legacy of activist and thinker Simone Weil (1909–1943) and deserve to be included in the narrowest canon of political thought classics. Starting with a devastating critique of all false modern utopias, including the ideal of social revolution, Weil, in carefully considered steps, seeks – and even amidst utter historical hopelessness, tentatively finds – a way to nevertheless think, perceive and develop true human freedom.