Abstract

: French philosopher Simone Weil (1909-1943) was convinced that bodily or somatic practices could play a significant role in human moral and religious development. Weil believed that such development hinges on how the world is read (lecture) or interpreted, and somatic practices play a key role in shifting rom more to less egocentric readings. While she did not live to complete her research on somatic practice, it is fruitful to follow out the lines of her program. Comparing her considerations with those of Japanese Buddhists, and especially Dogen, helps throw into relief her philosophical commitment concerning the body and reveals her preoccupation with purity. Weil's research raises interesting questions for philosophers of somatic practice