Jewish Philosophy

(Cross-listed as JS 183 and HEB 173.) Pre-modern Jewish philosophy at the nexus of Jewish tradition, classical Greek philosophy, and its prior Islamic reception. Topics include human perfection and ethics, revelation and reason, religious and political law, and the ideal state. Primary texts include writings of Saadia Gaon, Moses Maimonides, and Baruch Spinoza. All readings in English translation. Recommendations: one course in philosophy, political theory, or Judaic Studies.