2023-24 Events

A lecture and a book discussion

Date: October 25, 2023
Time: 12:00 p.m.
Location: Clemens 202 and Zoom

Scholars interested to contribute to the discussion, are invited to contact Prof. Sergey Dolgopolski.

We cordially invite you to the public discussion of Federico Dal Bo's Deconstructing the Talmud. The Absolute Book (Routledge 2019), a scholarly exploration into the intricacies of the Talmud. In this monograph, the author employs deconstruction—a philosophical movement pioneered by Jacques Derrida—to analyze the Talmud, which is widely regarded as the most authoritative book in Judaism. By juxtaposing deconstruction with the philosophies of Kant and Hegel, the book contends that this approach introduces a fresh discourse on Jewish Law. Through a comprehensive examination, the volume explores the novel perspectives and thought-provoking discussions that emerge from this engagement with deconstruction.

We will begin with the author, Federico Dal Bo speaking about the main stakes in his book, followed by comments by Elad Lapidot (Lille), Daniel Weiss (Cambridge) and Sam Catlin (Buffalo) followed by Q&A and discussion. The event is planned for approximately 90 minutes. 

Join us as we delve into the multifaceted layers of Talmudic scholarship from a philosophical and poststructural perspective. The event will provide an opportunity to delve deeper into the subject matter through insightful discussions and interactions with the author and three prominent responders from Philosophy and Jewish Studies.

Save the date on October 25, 2023 12 noon EST (New York) and join us on Zoom on to be a part of this insightful book launch event.

The event is open for public. Scholars interested to contribute to the discussion please be in touch with Prof. Sergey Dolgopolski