• Philosopher Byung Chul Han has released new works analyzing the legacy of French thinker Simone Weil.
  • Han describes Weil as the 'most brilliant intellectual figure of the 20th century' and credits her with offering an excellent lesson in the philosophy of religion.
  • The publications come in two distinct editions: one from Paidós titled 'Sobre Dios.
  • Pensar con Simone Weil' and another from Edicions 62 titled 'Sobre Déu.

Quick Summary

Philosopher Byung Chul Han has released a new analysis of French thinker Simone Weil's work, asserting her status as the 'most brilliant intellectual figure of the 20th century'.

The new publications explore Weil's religious philosophy and her enduring influence on modern thought. Han argues that Weil offers an essential lesson on religious philosophy, countering the idea that God is no longer a relevant subject in contemporary intellectual circles.

The works are available in two distinct editions, published by Paidós and Edicions 62, both focusing on Weil's unique approach to theology and philosophy.

Han's High Praise for Weil

Byung Chul Han characterizes Simone Weil as the 'most brilliant intellectual figure of the 20th century' in his latest works.

The philosopher argues that Weil provides a profound lesson in the philosophy of religion. He views her as one of the most creative and influential thinkers of the modern era.

These assessments are central to the thesis of the new books, which aim to reintroduce Weil's specific brand of religious thought to a contemporary audience.

the most brilliant intellectual figure of the 20th century
— Byung Chul Han

Dual Publications 📚

The analysis of Weil's work is presented in two separate volumes released simultaneously.

The first volume is titled Sobre Dios. Pensar con Simone Weil. It was translated by Lara Cortés and published by Paidós in 2025. The book spans 240 pages and is priced at 14.15 euros.

The second volume is titled Sobre Déu. Pensar amb Simone Weil. Translated by Guillem Gómez Sesé, this version was released by Edicions 62. It consists of 128 pages and retails for 14.90 euros.

Weil's Enduring Legacy

Simone Weil expressed deep anxiety about the reception of her work during her lifetime. In a letter to Father Joseph Perrin, she worried that her thoughts were 'condemned to death' by her own 'insufficiency and misery'.

However, her posthumous reputation grew significantly. Albert Camus famously described her as the 'only free spirit of our time'.

Camus noted that Weil possessed a great thirst for truth, accompanied by significant intelligence and honesty. This legacy forms the basis of Han's current examination of her philosophy.

"condemned to death by the contagion of my insufficiency and of my misery"

— Simone Weil

"the only free spirit of our time"

— Albert Camus

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the subject of Byung Chul Han's new books?

The books focus on the life and philosophy of French thinker Simone Weil.

What are the titles of the new publications?

The works are titled 'Sobre Dios. Pensar con Simone Weil' (Paidós) and 'Sobre Déu. Pensar amb Simone Weil' (Edicions 62).