The Hartman Dissertation

A "Portal" to Hartman's Formal Axiology

Abstract

If Hartman's seminal The Structure of Value is daunting to the average reader, especially with all of its emphasis on logic and mathematics, the dissertation is straightforward, clear, and precise by comparison. By reading the dissertation, even the uninitiated can gain a sense of Hartman's intellect, the force of his conviction about establishing a value orientation, and can come to understand the diverse range of his philosophical, religious, and political concerns. By reading the dissertation, the way is paved to take on The Structure of Value and all of its beautiful complexity. This paper provides an admiring glimpse into the purpose, scope, and power of Hartman’s doctoral dissertation.