Legal Values and Judaism a Review Letter
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A fundamental tension between traditional Jewish law and modern democratic values continues to shape Israeli society, prompting fresh examination of how these competing worldviews might be reconciled. Ze'ev Falk's "Legal Values and Judaism: Towards a Philosophy of Halakhah" proposes an innovative third path through "radical traditionalism"—a historical approach that views halakhah as inherently responsive to social and moral circumstances while preserving essential Jewish continuity. By advocating for the selective "unfreezing" of halakhah through diverse traditional sources—including Talmud, codes, responsa, and aggadic literature—Falk demonstrates how Jewish law can evolve to reflect contemporary moral consensus without sacrificing authenticity. His analysis of specific cases, such as mamzerut (illegitimacy) and pluralism, reveals historical precedent for halakhic modification in response to changing social conditions. While Falk's framework effectively articulates mainstream Conservative Judaism's approach to Jewish law, his scholarly contribution extends beyond denominational boundaries, offering valuable insights for contemporary Jewish legal thought and Israeli religious policy. The work provides a methodological blueprint for adapting halakhah to modern realities while maintaining traditional authority and continuity.

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Published 1981
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Theodore Friedman