Martin Buber: Creaturely Life and Social Form

Martin Buber (1878–1965) was an anthologist, translator, and author of seven hundred books and papers. Martin Buber: Creaturely Life and Social Form, edited by Sarah Scott, is a collection of nine essays that explore his thought and career, highlighting his distinction between dialogic and monologic relations and his focus on the image of relationship as a guide to spiritual, social, and political change.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 284 pages
Publication date: 06 December 2022
Publisher: Indiana University Press

Best known for his influential work I and Thou, Martin Buber (1878-1965) was a multifaceted scholar, translator, and author. He left an indelible mark on the world of philosophy, theology, and social activism. In his lifetime, Buber authored an astonishing seven hundred books and papers, covering a wide range of subjects.

Martin Buber: Creaturely Life and Social Form, edited by Sarah Scott, is a remarkable collection of nine essays that delve into the depth and breadth of Buber's thought and career. This insightful anthology challenges the conventional understanding of Buber by shifting the focus away from the I-Thou dialogue, which has traditionally been considered his most significant contribution. Instead, it highlights Buber as a thinker deeply concerned with the image of relationship as a catalyst for spiritual, social, and political transformation.

The result of this re-evaluation is a fresh and dynamic portrayal of Buber, one that emphasizes his aesthetic and political dimensions rather than his epistemological or theological interests. The essays in Martin Buber: Creaturely Life and Social Form provide a comprehensive guide to the entirety of Buber's thinking, career, and activism. They contextualize his work within the broader historical and intellectual landscape, illuminating both the evolution of his ideas and the persistent themes that drove his intellectual pursuits.

Through this collection, readers gain a deeper appreciation for Buber's profound insights and his unwavering commitment to promoting a more harmonious and inclusive world. His vision of relationship as a means of transcending individualism and fostering meaningful connections between people remains as relevant today as it was during his lifetime.

In conclusion, Martin Buber: Creaturely Life and Social Form is a groundbreaking anthology that offers a fresh perspective on the renowned scholar's life and work. By decentering the emphasis on the I-Thou dialogue and highlighting Buber's broader concerns, this collection provides a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of his thought. Buber's legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of thinkers, and this anthology is a testament to his enduring significance.

Weight: 446g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253063649