Therefore Kaplan, while always an ardent Zionist, insisted that the Jewish civilization of the Diaspora was not only possible but also essential to Jewish existence. He believed that Jewish civilization expressed its genius by clarifying the purposes and values of human existence, in wrestling with God, and in the ritual of the home, synagogue, and community. However, the secular elements of culture are essential to Jewish spirituality in that they curb the tendency of religion toward rigidity, uniformity, and worship of the past. This perspective of Kaplan reflected a pragmatic, historical view of Judaism rather than a metaphysical, revelational one. The focus of Jewish life for Rabbi Kaplan is the Jewish people, its needs, and its responses to challenges, rather than revealed texts or abstruse constructions.
Tradition can guide but can never dictate to the individual Jewish conscience.
Through his religious nationalism and humanism Mordecai Kaplan bridges the philosophical gap between the Old and New World Jewish thinkers. While adding enormously to the tradition of Jewish thought, Rabbi Kaplan's Jewish thought has never been traditional. Though controversial in his outlook, Mordecai Kaplan's liberalism, flexibility, and insight prove exemplary for the modern Jewish thinker.