#72: Simone Weil -- Attention

Byung-Chul Han interprets the widespread malaise in modern society as an inability to manage negative experiences in an age characterized by excessive positivity and the universal availability of people and goods. He argues that the shift from a disciplinary society to an achievement society, where individuals are driven by self-monitoring and the desire to achieve, leads to auto-exploitation and burnout. Han draws on literature, philosophy, and the social and natural sciences to explore the consequences of sacrificing intermittent intellectual reflection for constant neural connection and the impact of hyperattention and multitasking on mental health and culture.

In 'Reflections on the Right Use of School Studies with a View to the Love of God,' Simone Weil argues that academic pursuits can serve as a spiritual practice by cultivating attention, a quality essential for prayer and communion with God. She emphasizes that the effort to study, rather than the outcome, is transformative and spiritually enriching. This essay is part of her broader philosophical work on spirituality and education.

Bernard Stiegler's "What Makes Life Worth Living" delves into the philosophical and psychological aspects of human existence, exploring the relationship between technology, meaning, and well-being. Stiegler examines the impact of technology on our capacity for attention and critical thinking, arguing that the constant bombardment of information can lead to a state of psychic disorientation. He proposes a philosophy of attention that emphasizes the importance of cultivating mindful engagement with the world. The book explores the role of art, culture, and education in fostering a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Stiegler's work offers a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancement.