In this discussion-based class, we will read I and Thou, Martin Buber’s landmark work in philosophy and theology written in 1923 and considered to be a seminal work of 20th century intellectual history. We will consider his philosophy of dialogue and its explication of our experience of reality as essentially relational—as comprised of, what he calls, two essential “word pairs”—I-It and I-You.
 

Based upon the claim that no isolated ‘I” exists apart from relationship to an other—animate or inanimate—this dialogue transforms each participant into a center of value, into a revelation of presence, that enhances the dignity of both. We will explore the morally transformative possibilities inherent in this way of seeing the world, ourselves, and God, and consider how such a fundamentally basic shift in our perspective might show us a way to change the world for the better.

This course will consist of discussions between the Study Leader and participants.