For decades, Rabbi Elliot Dorff has been a leading thinker, writer, and educator on Jewish ethics. In his latest work, Ethics at the Center, he showcases his intellectual process, highlighting for readers the importance of investigating ethical questions through a Jewish lens. This is a remarkably graceful text that will appeal to scholars and lay readers alike.
In order to shed light on his intellectual process, Dorff describes the history and development of his thinking over time. He reflects on how accepted norms have changed since he first began writing without waxing nostalgic about the way things were. He celebrates academic curiosity and Jewish life, both of which are able to grow and adapt, to provide new opportunities for thoughtful, moral living. The first six chapters include sufficient background to center the reader, ensuring that the book is approachable while still retaining the sophistication of Dorff’s ideas.
One of the joys of Ethics at the Center is the breadth of topics that Dorff explores. In a clear writing style, he addresses issues such as reproductive rights, war, and professional and personal communication. Readers may be tempted to jump into the subject that speaks most directly to their interests, but most will benefit from moving through the book’s three sections in order. It’s rewarding to experience the thoughtful interplay between them.
This book will provide readers — particularly those who are familiar with the broader field of Jewish sacred texts, theology, and ethics — with much food for thought and discussion. Those who already consider themselves to be disciples of Dorff will appreciate his ongoing creativity and intellect. Ethics at the Center serves as an invitation to become an active participant in an exciting conversation.
Debby Miller is a long-time board member of Jewish Book Council, serving on its Fiction committee, and later founding the National Jewish Book Award for Book Clubs. She is currently a Vice President of the organization. Debby is based in Greensboro, NC and has been involved in the Jewish community through National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), AIPAC, B’nai Shalom and the Federation. She was president of the local Women’s Division and campaign chair, and also got involved in the National Women’s Division. One of her primary philanthropic endeavors is her work with JDC, where she has been a member of the board since 1994.