Single Idea 23823

[catalogued under 23. Ethics / F. Existentialism / 4. Boredom]

Full Idea

The boredom produced by a complete absence of risk is a sickness of the human soul.

Gist of Idea

Life needs risks to avoid sickly boredom

Source

Simone Weil (Draft Statement of Human Obligations [1943], p.229)

Book Reference

Weil,Simone: 'An Anthology' [Penguin 1986], p.229


A Reaction

An unusual analysis of boredom. I think it is probably purposeful activity that we need, rather than actual risk, with all the stresses that involves. Risks are justified by their rewards.