Columbia Library columns (v.27(1977Nov-1978May))

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  v.27,no.3(1978:May): Page 27  



A Unique American Apostate                       27

"filial piety" which he publicly acknowledged. He described him¬
self as "a religious emigrant who has left the old country in reli¬
gion . . . [but whol thinks lovingly of the mother-land." He
suggested that "it is a part of self-respect not to cut off one's mem¬
ory, not to wish to bury the past out of sight—and it is part of the
best kind of spiritual development to know the fountain out of
which one has been drawn." Unlike the traditional vindictiveness
of Jewish apostates, Adler did not revile his Jewish origin, but ac¬
knowledged its impact on him. He appreciated the positive con¬
tributions of his religious tradition and, with historical perspective
understood its shortcomings for the present day. Perhaps Felix
Adler, best temcmbered as an ardent social critic and spearhead
for civic and educational reform, may also serve as a constructi\e
model for anyone feeling it necessary to leave his religious tradi¬
tion and social fellowship.
  v.27,no.3(1978:May): Page 27