Eleanor Russell

Eleanor Russell, a writer and academic at Northwestern University, dives into the mystical writings of Simone Weil. She shares how Weil's profound conversion shifted her focus from political philosophy to Christian mysticism. The conversation explores Weil's paradox that truth emerges through suffering and absence. Eleanor highlights Weil's radical thoughts on agency, virtue, and moral power, alongside her activism during politically turbulent times. They also discuss how Weil's unique perspectives resonate with contemporary issues of suffering and institutional critique.