JUDS 1503: Ethical Issues and Dilemmas

Abstract

¶Course objective: To explore and understand selected issues of Jewish ethics and their application in the modern world. We will study classical texts of Halacha – the Talmud and its commentaries – in order to gain an understanding of the basic principles of Halacha and we will utilize the codes of Jewish law and selections from the Responsa literature to learn how these principles apply today. ¶Course units: I. Judging others A. Taking the future into account. 8/25, 8/30 B. Giving the benefit of the doubt. 9/1, 9/6 II. Truth and Falsehood A. Lying 9/8, 9/13 B. Deception 9/15, 9/20 III. Life and Death A. Protecting one’s own life 9/22, 10/6 B. Murder and capital punishment 10/20, 10/25 C. War 10/27, 11/1 D. Abortion 11/3, 11/8 E. Short term life for long term chances 11/10, 11/15 IV. Equality A. In court 11/17, 11/22 B. Appointing leaders 11/29, 12/1 C. Castes 12/6, 12/8 D. Dividing the land of Israel 12/13, E. Loving one’s fellow. 12/15 F. Loving the convert 12/20 G. Slavery 12/22