Judaism and Global Survival (P) [Englisch] [Taschenbuch]

Readers familiar with the classic volume "Judaism and Vegetarianism" by Professor Richard H Schwartz will be delighted to learn that its sequel, "Judaism and Global Survival," has recently been revised and updated.

The publication of this new edition could hardly be more timely, seeking as it does to explore the vital issue of protecting the earth from the many threats it faces. The solution, according to Professor Schwartz, is not necessarily to be found in current technology, but rather by applying Jewish mandates related to protecting our imperiled planet. He reminds us that as
Jews, not only are we obligated to carry out the mandate of Tikkun Olam (to repair the world), but also that we should pursue peace and justice, feed the hungry, conserve resources, and love our neighbors as ourselves. The book's message however is not only for Jews but for people of all faiths, discussing as it does the practical measures that can help reduce global warming, world hunger and rapid population growth.

The book is divided up into sections addressing many important themes, such as energy, social justice, and human rights. Each section is illustrated with appropriate Biblical quotations and examples of Jewish teachings. As Professor Schwartz points out, however, it is not enough simply to know about these Jewish values. In order to achieve a beneficial and necessary change,
we must apply them. To this end, he provides us with an appendix listing some effective and practical ways that we can help improve the environment: for example, by writing letters, displaying bumper stickers, and organizing events on the theme of global sustainability.

One of the most important sections is the one which argues that a shift toward vegetarianism is an essential factor in improving theenvironment. Indeed Professor Schwartz points out that both vegetarians and environmentalists have similar goals: "The aims of vegetarians and environmental activists are similar: simplify our lifestyles, have regard for the earth and all forms of life, and apply the knowledge that the earth is not ours to do with as we wish. In view of the many negative effects of animal-based agriculture on the earth's environment, resources, and climate, it is becoming increasingly clear that a shift toward vegetarian diets is a planetary imperative."

"Judaism and Global Survival" is an important book for anyone who cares about the environment and who would like to learn the appropriate Jewish values which could make all the difference to the future of our planet.

Lets flash forward to the present day where we are faced with many, seemingly insurmountable problems. Once again, we look to high tech to cure what ails us. We expect great minds to present us with solutions for global warming, overpopulation, world hunger and myriad other evils. Dr. Schwartz shows us in his book, Judaism and Global Survival, that great minds already delivered a solution and the hero for survival is us. By employing the basic tenets of Judaism, we can help correct much of what is threatening our planet and its inhabitants.

Tikun Olum  is the Jewish concept of restoring and redeeming the earth. Each of us, as Jews has the responsibility to make our world a better place. Dr. Schwartz emphasizes the idea of individual responsibility. When we see a wrong, we must protest it and take action to correct it. It is up to us as individuals to sound the alarm and motivate society to help itself.

Many of us expend enormous amounts of energy in areas over which we have little control. For example, have you ever listened to a show biz or sports fan rattle off every single statistic imaginable about their favourite celebrity or team? These kinds of issues have their place, but lets face it, they are third party concerns at best. Nothing is going to change and no one is going to benefit from the energy we spend on those discussions. By using just a fraction of that time and energy in the goal of changing things about ourselves, we can have tremendous influence on the overall condition of the world.
To me, the essence of Dr. Schwartzs message is KISS- Keep It Simple Stupid. Lets not always look for the most complicated and high tech solutions to our problems when so often good old common sense will do the job. Science and technology present us with tools to identify and expedite possible solutions, but it is up to us to determine what needs to be done. We must then motivate ourselves and those around us to take the necessary action.

This book helped me to understand how looking towards Jewish teaching and ancient wisdom can bring about a greater sense of social justice and compassion. I wholeheartedly recommend Judaism and Global Survival, as a source of spiritual and social motivation and as an instruction manual as to how we, as Jews, can Keep It Simple and accomplish enduring good.