The Philosophy of Martin Buber – Dialogical Existence and the Human Encounter | The Library of Living Philosophers | Volume XII, 1967 | Review, Analysis & Summary

The Philosophy of Martin Buber, curated by Paul Arthur Schilpp, constitutes Volume XII in the prestigious Library of Living Philosophers series, released in 1967. This volume offers a profound and personal exploration of Martin Buber's (1878–1965) life, ideas, and impact, recognizing him as one of the prominent Jewish philosophers of the twentieth century and a forerunner of dialogical philosophy.
Renowned for his notion of the I-Thou relationship, Buber's contributions transcended conventional academic limits, appealing to religious scholars, political activists, existentialist thinkers, and educators. This volume emphasizes his profoundly humanistic understanding of relationships, accountability, and significance.

Who Was Martin Buber?

Martin Buber was a Jewish philosopher, theologian, educator, and translator originally from Austria. He is best known for his influential book I and Thou (1923), which delineates two core modes of engaging with the world:

• I-It: An objective, functional interaction with both people and objects
• I-Thou: A genuine, mutual, and sincere connection with another individual

Buber's philosophy was heavily influenced by Hasidic Judaism, existentialism, and ethics centered around dialogue. Additionally, he was politically active, promoting cooperative efforts between Jews and Arabs in pre-state Israel and endorsing harmonious coexistence.
Other significant works authored by Buber include:

• Between Man and Man
• The Way of Man According to the Teachings of Hasidism
• Eclipse of God
• Good and Evil
• Translations of the Hebrew Bible (in collaboration with Franz Rosenzweig)

Structure and Content of the Volume

Adhering to the Library of Living Philosophers format, this volume comprises:

1. Philosophical Autobiography

In this heartfelt narrative, Buber shares his intellectual evolution, formative influences, spiritual growth, and pivotal moments that molded his philosophy. He contemplates his initial forays into mysticism, his Zionist aspirations, and his developing insights into human dialogue and ethics.

2. Selections from Buber’s Work

The volume includes selected passages from Buber's prominent writings, featuring:

• I and Thou
• Between Man and Man
• The Knowledge of Man
• Essays on Hasidism, education, religious belief, and political philosophy

These excerpts exemplify Buber's dedication to human dignity, mutuality, and dialogical ethics.

3. Critical and Interpretive Essays

Philosophers and theologians from diverse backgrounds critically engage with Buber's ideas. Notable contributors encompass:

• Paul Tillich – exploring the theological aspects of Buber's philosophy
• Emil L. Fackenheim – discussing Jewish philosophy and theology in the aftermath of the Holocaust
• Walter Kaufmann – contrasting Buber's brand of existentialism with that of Nietzsche
• Malcolm Diamond, Eugene B. Borowitz, Nahum N. Glatzer, and others

These essays delve into:

• Buber's perspectives on religion, ethics, and education
• His assessments of modernity and secular thought
• His influence on Jewish philosophy and interfaith discussions

4. Buber’s Replies

A particularly noteworthy section of the volume presents Buber's thoughtful replies to each contributor. His approach is both humble and resolute, providing clarifications on intricate topics relating to:
The I-Thou relationship versus objectification
Faith, skepticism, and the nature of God's presence
The potential for authentic encounters in a divided world

Key Themes in Martin Buber’s Philosophy

1. I-Thou and I-It Relations

At the core of Buber's philosophy lies the differentiation between I-It (the realm of objects and functionality) and I-Thou (the realm of connection and presence). The I-Thou experience is sacred, reciprocal, and transformative, forming the basis of genuine human existence.

2. Dialogue and the Human Condition

Buber viewed dialogue as more than mere communication; it is a mode of existence. Authentic dialogue encompasses openness, presence, and a readiness to be influenced by others. This understanding resonates with education, therapy, politics, and theology.

3. Religious Faith and Presence

While deeply grounded in Judaism, Buber's notion of God surpasses doctrinal boundaries. For him, God is not merely an object of faith but the eternal Thou—experienced in the depths of human relationships and moments of true connection.

4. Ethics and Responsibility

Buber posited that existence entails responsibility. Each encounter represents a moral imperative. His ethical perspective emphasizes relational accountability over abstract guidelines.

5. Education and Human Development

Buber integrated his philosophy into education, highlighting the importance of dialogue between teachers and students as vital for learning. He regarded education as both a moral and a spiritual endeavor.

Why This Volume Matters

The Philosophy of Martin Buber serves as a valuable resource for:

• Students of existentialism, Jewish thought, and religious philosophy
• Educators examining dialogical instructional techniques
• Theologians and interfaith researchers
• Readers curious about ethics, relationships, and spiritual practices

This volume conveys Buber's enduring message: the quality of our lives is determined by the profundity of our relationships—with others, with the natural world, and with God.