One of the side issues of multiculturalism is that it encourages religious, or as some prefer, “faith-based” education which is socially divisive. In truth there were “faith–based” schools in many European countries long before multiculturalism was an issue. It was seen as an issue of choice. In principle, as a confirmed believer in separating state from religion, I do not…
General Topics
Multiculturalism
Everyone seems to be attacking multiculturalism nowadays. It is true that different groups of immigrants in Europe are huddling together in voluntary ghettos, but there have always been enclaves of class, region, and background. Matters are worse at the moment because so many Muslim immigrants oppose Western ideals whilst living off of them. Indeed, there are plenty of Orthodox Jews…
Abraham
Every time I read the Biblical narratives about Abraham (and it’s that time of the year in the synagogue) I am reminded of the differences between his day and ours–and I usually think the comparison favours his. I often come across people who claim that Abraham was rather primitive, specifically in the way he treated his women. But the fact…
Middle Eastern Books
My summer reading included some fascinating contrasts. It started with Amos Oz. I have to confess I am so far removed from secular Jewish angst that I have tended to steer clear of secular Israeli literature. Besides, I get so many anti-Israel and anti-Jewish opinions, and articles, and programs bombarding me, particularly whilst I’m in Europe, that frankly I just…
Hygiene
In my callow youth I used to think it absurd to have, as Jewish law requires, to wash and make a blessing every time I went to the toilet. It added another ritual ablution to a long list that started from the moment I woke up. My stern grandfather insisted that I make use of a bowl he placed under…
Atonement
This has not been a good year for religion. In the West, scientists and rationalists of various hues and popularity have repeatedly assaulted it in bestselling books. Many of their arguments have appeared persuasive. Religion has a lot to answer for; or to be fairer, people who act in the name of religion have a lot to answer for. They…