Description
Book SynopsisExplores the continuing role of Judaism for crafting ethics, politics, and theology. Drawing on sources as diverse as the Bible, the Talmud, and ancient, medieval, and modern philosophy, David Novak asserts Judaism's integral place in communal discourse of the public square.
Trade ReviewNovak speaks as a Jewish Theologian to inform us that the Jewish canonical texts for determining the Transcendental all have the core message to act humanely and rationally as a 'pro-active' member of one's community. In so doing, the communities function as homes for the Transcendental. -- Sheldon Richmond -- Literature and Theology
Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Can Capital Punishment Ever Be Justified in the Jewish Tradition? 2. The Elimination of Mutilation and Torture in Rabbinic Thought and Practice 3. Natural Law, Human Dignity, and the Protection of Human Property 4. Land and People: One Jewish Perspective 5. Jewish Marriage and Civil Law: A Two-Way Street? 6. Jewish Marriage: Nature, Covenant, and Contract 7. Divine Justice/Divine Command 8. The Universality of Jewish Ethics: A Rejoinder to Secularist Critics 9. The Judaic Foundation of Rights 10. Social Contract in Modern Jewish Thought: A Theological Critique 11. Toward a Jewish Public Philosophy in America 12. Defending Niebuhr from Hauerwas 13. Is Natural Law a Border Concept Between Judaism and Christianity?
