Q&A: Study
Study
Question
Hello Rabbi,
I’m interested in studying philosophy, but it’s important to me that my studies be connected to Judaism and reflect a Jewish outlook that doesn’t contradict Jewish law. Do you have any recommendations for what I could start learning?
Answer
Hello Talia.
Do you mean academic studies?
Discussion on Answer
In my opinion, there’s no point in choosing studies based on a Jewish outlook. When you study philosophy, you’re supposed to learn how to think, and thinking is by definition free. I also don’t really accept that there is such a thing as a Jewish outlook, or that there is an outlook that does or doesn’t contradict Jewish law. You need to formulate for yourself a position on what you think is correct, and from there examine what that means for Jewish law and for Judaism, if at all.
So if you want to study philosophy, study it in the regular way according to the subjects that are taught in the field. I don’t think there is one single order that fits everyone. Just start exploring and see what interests you. If you want something more systematic, maybe you should take courses from the Open University, or at least read their books.
No. Videos on YouTube
or books would be better.