Repercussions of the Kalam in Jewish Philosophy - Hardcover

Wolfson, Harry Austryn

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0674761758 ISBN 13: 9780674761759

Publisher: Harvard University Press, 1979

Synopsis

In his monumental Philosophy of the Kalam the late Harry Wolfson―truly the most accomplished historian of philosophy in our century―examined the early medieval system of Islamic philosophy. He studies its repercussions in Jewish thought in this companion book―an indispensable work for all students of Jewish and Islamic traditions.

Wolfson believed that ideas are contagious, but that for beliefs to catch on from one tradition to another the recipients must be predisposed, susceptible. Thus he is concerned here not so much with the influence of Islamic ideas as with Jewish elaboration, adaptation, qualification, and criticism of them. To this end he examines passages reflecting Kalam views by a wide variety of Jewish thinkers, including Isaac Israeli, Judah Halevi, Abraham ibn Ezra, and Maimonides. As always in Wolfson's work, two aspects are apparent: the special dimensions of Jewish thought as well as its relation to other traditions. And as always his prose is both graceful and precise.

About this title

About the Author:

Harry Austryn Wolfson was Nathan Littauer Professor of Hebrew Literature and Philosophy, Emeritus, Harvard University.

About this edition

• Publisher: Harvard University Press
• Publication date: 1979
• ISBN 10: 0674761758
• ISBN 13: 9780674761759
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 254