An Introduction to Jewish Ethics

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.

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.

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.