Philosophy and Praxis in the Thought of Aaron David Gordon

Abstract

This paper examines the tension between philosophy and praxis in the thought of Aaron David Gordon. Highlighting the methodical character of Gordon’s philosophical understanding of human existence in terms of “man-in-nature,” I attempt to show that while his philosophy was initially meant to influence the construction of society and culture in the Land of Israel at the beginning of the twentieth century, it is particularly relevant with regard to contemporary philosophical questions concerning Jewish and human existence in every area in which the concept of humanity plays a central role, such as education, conservation, social justice, and international relations.