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Subject: 'Original Sin' and the Reasons for Human Mortality in the Works of Rabbi Hillel of Verona
Supervisor: Dr. Caterina Rigo
Abstract: The purpose of my research is to analyze R. Hillel of Verona's unique approach to the topic of 'Original Sin', which is influenced both by Christian Scholasticism and Aristotelian rationalism in 13th century Italy. It appears that R. Hillel was the first Jewish philosopher who dedicated a separate and lengthy philosophical treatise to the idea of 'Original Sin' and to the question whether such sin is the cause of human mortality. In my research I aim to show, based on a philological-historical analysis, that R. Hillel created a unique interpretation to the idea of 'Original Sin', which combines both Aristotelian and Neoplatonic philosophies, and which is framed as a constant dialogue with the writings of his contemporary: the Christian scholar Thomans Aquinas. Furthermore, I will suggest that R. Hillel's course of discussion within a broader reference to Christian beliefs, reflects an important aspect of Jewish-Christian debate in 13th century Italy, not yet discussed academically. As part of my research, I will also prepare a critical edition to R. Hillel's treatise on 'Original Sin'.
Research Topic: Michel Foucault's Political Philosophy and Its reception in Israel
Supervisor: Moshe Sluhovsky
Abstract: My research presents the agents and institutions that brought the political ideas of Michel Foucault from France and the United States to Israel. In addition, I ask what are the processes that the knowledge itself went through. Beginning in the 1990s, Foucault and postmodern ideas influenced political and cultural discourse in Israel. Postmodernism in Israel has both enemies and supporters, both in the right-wing and the left-wing political discourse. My research will present the role that these ideas played in Israeli politics and culture.
