Synopses & Reviews
An Introduction to Jewish Ethics offers a concise overview of the Jewish ethical tradition as it has evolved from biblical times to the present. Louis E. Newman deftly guides readers from understanding religious ethics generally to foundational beliefs of Judaism, the ways in which Jewish ethical values reflect these beliefs, the classical sources in which the find expression, and finally, the various ways in which contemporary Jewish ethicists have drawn from and reinterpreted their tradition as they have responded to the ethical dilemmas of our time. Newman draws attention to divergent theological and ethical perspectives within the tradition. Attention is given to both ethical theory and practice, so readers emerge with a clear sense of the conceptual contours of this ethical tradition and an acquaintance with key perspectives and figures. With summaries and questions at the conclusion of each chapter, a glossary, and suggestions for further reading, this hook makes an ideal starting point for any study of Judaism and its ethics.
Review
"This is a model introduction: accessible, engaging, and bearing the marks of wide learning. Those unfamiliar with Jewish ethics will find that it takes nothing for granted; those already familiar will also gain much from the clear and searching way it addresses an impressive range of subjects. It is a most valuable and welcome work." Gene Outka, Dwight Professor of Philosophy and Christian Ethics,
Yale University "For too long scholars of religious ethics have lacked a basic text in Jewish ethics. Louis E. Newman has rewarded our patience with a volume that is learned, engaging, balanced, and comprehensive. Surveying biblical, rabbinical, and modern Jewish thought and history, An Introduction to Jewish Ethics provides a wonderful overview of Judaism's moral sources. Newman introduces the reader to methodological issues in religious ethics, central themes and practices in Judaism, and influential thinkers in classical and contemporary Jewish thought. With clarity and grace, he covers a range of issues that inform Jewish tradition: revelation and reason, scripture and commentary, tradition and modernity, worldview and ethos. He also provides a sampling of Jewish thinking regarding sexuality, abortion, and war. Students of Judaism, religious ethics, and moral theory will find this book essential reading." Richard B. Miller, Professor, Department of Religious Studies, Director, Poynter Center for the Study of Ethics and American Institutions, Indiana University
Synopsis
Introduction to Jewish Ethics offers a concise overview of the Jewish ethical tradition as it has evolved from biblical times to the present. The volume provides a broad conceptual overview of the central beliefs of classical Judaism and the ways in which these frame traditional Jewish approaches to issues in ethics, both theoretical and practical and it familiarizes readers with the distinctive ways in which contemporary Jewish ethics draw upon this rich tradition of religious-ethical reflection as they address key ethical issue of our day. The volume examines religion, ethics and religious ethics, Judaism and Jewish Ethics, sources of Jewish ethics, contours of Jewish moral life, foundations of moral obligation in Judaism and Jewish ethics in modern times. For those interested in religion and ethics.
About the Author
Louis E. Newman is the Joan M. and Elizabeth W. Musser Professor of Religious Studies and the Director of the Program in Judaic Studies at Carleton College, Northfield, Minnesota.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Preparing for the Journey.
1. Religion, Ethics and Religious Ethics.
2. Judaism and Jewish Ethics.
3. Sources of Jewish Ethics.
4. Contours of Jewish Moral Life.
5. Foundations of Moral Obligation in Judaism.
6. Jewish Ethics in Modern Times.
7. Three Case Studies: Continuity and Diversity in Contemporary Jewish Ethics.
Conclusion: Learning the Language of Jewish Ethics.
Notes.
Glossary.
Suggestions for Further Reading.
Index.