The Influence of Force in Societies

Simone Weil's essays explore the theme of how circumstances oppress and dehumanize individuals. She argues that force, whether it is exerted by individuals or institutions, plays a significant role in societal dynamics. Weil highlights how force controls and degrades individuals, turning them into mere instruments of power. She draws parallels between force in society and the Darwinian concept of natural selection, emphasizing that societies that do not succumb to oppressive power structures are often subdued or destroyed. Weil ultimately asserts that the solution lies in individual reflection and a transformation of how individuals interact with one another.