(Number Seven from Pillar B: Ethics)
Social Justice. Judaism seeks the attainment of a just society by the application of its teachings to the economic order, to industry and commerce, and to national and international affairs. It aims at the elimination of man-made misery and suffering, of poverty and degradation, of tyranny and slavery, of social inequality and prejudice, of ill-will and strife. It advocates the promotion of harmonious relations between warring classes on the basis of equity and justice, and the creation of conditions under which human personality may flourish. It pleads for the safeguarding of childhood against exploitation. It champions the cause of all who work and of their right to an adequate standard of living, as prior to the rights of property. Judaism emphasizes the duty of charity, and strives for a social order which will protect men against the material disabilities of old age, sickness and unemployment.
Suggested Discussion Questions:
1. To what extent does this Platform advocate social change? What is innovative about this platform's understanding of Jewish social justice, as embodied by the Reform movement?
2. Is this Platform excluding other categories of social justice? Would you add anything?
3. What is specifically Jewish about the Columbus Platform's understanding of social justice? Would this pillar hold true for any community?
Time Period: Modern (Spinoza through post-WWII)