This is a two-part examination of the Reconstructionist philosophy of Mordecai M. Kaplan. Part I is largely devoted to a defence of Kaplan against several serious critics. It also provides new insight into Kaplan's theology through reference to as yet unknown passages in his Diaries. Part II provides a critical analysis of the contemporary Reconstructionist movement and how a Kaplan disciple treats problems of democracy in Israel and issues of ethical theological concern.

"“In Democratizing Judaism, we are offered many rare glimpses into the evolution of Mordecai M. Kaplan’s thinking as Cohen connects Kaplan’s writing with his life experiences, his theology with his biography. . . . Cohen opens the volume with glowing words of praise; yet weaving its way through each chapter, and plainly visible by the end, master and disciple are speaking with one voice—a voice that still deserves to be heard; it is a voice that has much to reveal about the promise of Judaism and the state of modern Israel today.”" - Journal of Modern Jewish Studies, vol. 12, issue 3 (December 2013)