Submitting to divine religious authority in a world of personal autonomy: The challenge of choice

Abstract

R. Aharon Lichtenstein once wrote, “On the one hand, he [the modern Orthodox Jew] recognizes – both as a matter of a priori inherent necessity and in light of relevant sources – that authority, and submission to it, is critical. […] On the other hand, the typical modern Orthodox Jew bridles at the thought of constricting his autonomy. […]”[xxiv] What can be done toward helping this individual resolve her or his dilemma? Nothing less than the future of a strong, viable Jewish community in America is at stake. (from Conclusion)