Athens versus Jerusalem: An Interview with Stephen Elkin

Publication Date: July 2009

Publisher: National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership

Author(s): Stephen L. Elkin; Shari Cohen

Research Area: Culture and religion

Keywords: Religion; Theory; Political Behavior

Type: Other

Abstract:

Cohen interviews Professor of Government Stephen L. Elkin, who talks about his lifelong commitment to moral theory -- and to a political science that is engaged in the world -- as a mirror of the observant, learned Jewish life, which he did not choose. Inspired by Leo Strauss, he talks about how he might begin to engage the Jewish tradition alongside western political theory -- Jerusalem alongside Athens -- and he reflects upon his hopes for an evolving Judaism that goes beyond the synagogue.