ABSTRACT
When we think of the great influence Maimonides has exercised on philosophy it is only fitting to lay stress on his own sources. This is necessary so that we may be able to see him in his true proportions. It is generally held that M. is an Aristotelian 2 ; only H. Cohen comes to the conclusion that his Ethics is Platonic. 3 I cannot decide here which of the two views is the right one as regards Maimonides’ philosophy as a whole nor present a third alternative by claiming that his philosophy is essentially Jewish. I intend rather to demonstrate the Maimonidean point of view compared and confronted with that of his Islamic environment in matters politico-philosophical, and I make an earnest attempt to see him in his true perspective in his political conception. 4
