Critical Media Studies Simone Weil - Attention
Mar 3, 2023
This discussion delves into Simone Weil's philosophy on attention and its crucial role in meaningful engagement. The speakers examine how distractions in our digital age challenge genuine creativity and deep thought. They critique TikTok's superficial engagement and highlight the importance of selective focus in learning. By connecting Weil's insights with contemporary issues, they advocate for a more deliberate approach to attention that fosters creativity and spiritual richness in our busy lives.
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Weil's Action-Focused Attention
- Simone Weil's approach to attention, unlike Han's, is action-focused, offering a way of being.
- Her religious perspective differs from Han and Stiegler, but all three explore attention's dynamics.
Action vs. Boredom
- While Han emphasizes passive boredom, Weil and Stiegler see action as crucial for creativity.
- Weil's attention is intentional, while Han's boredom is a waiting game for enlightenment.
Distraction: A Human Constant
- Weil suggests that distraction is a natural human tendency, regardless of technology.
- Unlike Han, who links burnout to the internet age, Weil believes attention deficits exist in analog societies too.
