Jewish Studies 229 - JUDAISM AND ENVIRONMENTALISM

Explores the relationship between environmentalism and ecological thinking in Jewish religious, philosophical, mystical, and ethical texts and practices. How has religion, both historically and now, encouraged or impeded ecologically mindful lives? Can an intellectual, spiritual, and activist vocabulary invest environmental awareness with religious meaning and purpose? Includes guest lectures by leading local figures in the Jewish environmental movement. Students interested in other religious or secular traditions are welcome to pursue a comparative final project. No prerequisites.