Jewish Philosophy: Foundations and Extensions

Volume Two of Jewish Philosophy: Foundations and Extensions deals with major thinkers. "Interpreting Judah Ha-Levi" discusses misunderstandings of his idea, and his impact on Jewish thought, especially his theories of Jewish uniqueness and the superiority of oral communication. "Interpreting Maimonides" examines the problematic structure of his Guide of the Perplexed, tensions in his ethical and political theory, and his radical approach to the book of Job." Philosophy, Mysticism and Astrology" explores the fluid boundaries among these fields, and how rationalist philosophers were interested in non-philosophical questions. "From Medieval to Modern Jewish Thought: Moses Mendelssohn" demonstrates how this transitional figure, though indebted to medieval thought, also formulated a radical and pluralistic modern political philosophy.