Changing the Immutable focuses on how segments of Orthodox society have taken upon themselves to rewrite the past; by covering up and literally cutting out that which does not fit in with their contemporary world-view. For reasons ranging from theological considerations to internal religious politics to changing religious standards; such Jewish self-censorship abounds; and Marc Shapiro discusses examples from each category; In a number of cases the original text is shown alongside how it looked after it was censored; together with an explanation of what made the text problematic and how the issue was resolved. The author considers how some Orthodox historiography sees truth as entirely instrumental. Drawing on the words of leading rabbis; particularly from the haredi world; he shows that what is important is not historical truth; but a 'truth' that leads to observance and faith in the sages. He concludes with a discussion of the concept of truth in the Jewish tradition; and when this truth can be altered.Changing the Immutable also reflects on the paradox of a society that regards itself as traditional; but at the same time is uncomfortable with much of the inherited tradition and thus feels the need to create an idealized view of the past. It considers this practice in context; showing the precedents for this in Jewish history dating back to talmudic times. Since the subjects of censorship have included such figures as Maimonides; Bahya ibn Pakuda; Rashi; Naphtali Herz Wessely; Moses Mendelssohn; the Hatam Sofer; Samson Raphael Hirsch; the Lubavitcher Rebbe; A. I. Kook; and J. B. Soloveitchik; as well as issues such as Zionism; biblical interpretation; and attitudes to women and gentiles; Changing the Immutable also serves as a study in Jewish intellectual history and how the ideas of one era do not always find favour with future generations.
#2449020 in Books Berkeley Hills Books 2003-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 .88 x 5.32 x 8.00l; #File Name: 1893163474413 pages
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A Pretty Good ReadBy A CustomerIt's an interesting window into the life of a slacker-turned-lawyer who got drafted into class action work at a time when it was a no-money business for legal aid organizations. Love or hate plaintiffs' lawyers; it's interesting to see how he latched onto State Farm and didn't let go until they made huge changes and paid him and the people he represented a whole lot of money.The dates and case cites are spotty in here; so don't go into it looking to do historical or legal research. For that reason; it's easy to lose track of the cases' place in time; and alarming when you realize he's writing about companies were getting away with blatant discrimination in the '80s and even into the '90s.For a lawyer; his writing's pretty clear and concise. And the stories about him growing up and skating through school and law school in the 1960s are kind of charming.One really good point about it is that he waited a decade to write up his story; so there's a maturity and perspective in there that would've been missing had he decided to cash in by writing a book during his rock-star days.It's not the most exciting or revealing memoir you'll ever read; but it is a nice little story of how one of this country's most famous trial lawyers made his way in the profession.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Great documentation of blatant discriminationBy Helen E. ThompsonA gripping account of a civil rights attorney's battles with corporate giants fighting sex; race and age discrimination. A must-read for younger people who want to know what the workplace was like for women in the 60's and 70's. Saperstein meticulously recounts testimony to portray the magnitude of the inequities; e.g.; female applicants were told; "it was difficult for women to become agents because business people did not respond to women as they do to men;" or "being an agent is too difficult for women because of the long hours and hard work" (p. 241-42). It's apparent that Saperstein's tenacity and success helped make it possible for qualified women and minorities to fairly compete in the workplace for better paying jobs.3 of 4 people found the following review helpful. A true civil warrior!By Erin EspositoGuy Saperstein has written a beautiful masterpiece with his latest book; "Civil Warrior: Memoirs of a Civil Rights Attorney." It's not often one finds a book of this caliber; so when one does locate such a book - it is a MUST read!!The book exemplifies the glory of justice being served. Guy Saperstein not only shares his experiences in litigating important cases; ones which have made a profound impact on our society (such as the Denny's discrimination case and the State Farm Insurance case); but he also shares valuable lessons of life. The lessons he learned from his father and throughout his many experiences in life are ever so fundamental; yet they are the kinds of lessons in life that we all would do well to be reminded of.An incredibly enjoyable and informative book!! This is a book no one can pass up!
