Why Postmodernism is an Anachronism to Enlightened Judaism

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into what he contends is the incompatibility between postmodernism and Judaism. Levi critically examines the postmodern assertion that reality and truth are subjective, contrasting this with a Jewish perspective that values empirical evidence, albeit recognizing its inherent limitations. He argues that Judaism, an ancient religion with defined contours and boundaries, inherently embraces the values of the Enlightenment, such as the pursuit of science and moral truths over relativistic views.

Through a detailed exploration, Levi illustrates how Jewish teachings prioritize moral truths, judgments, and righteousness over confident truth claims. He highlights the Torah's emphasis on 'emet' (truth) as equated to 'chesed' (kindness) as qualitative and moral rather than empirical truths. He underscores the importance of judgment in resolving disputes and guiding societal conduct according to law.

Referencing the teachings of Maimonides and Nahmanadies and principles embedded in the Torah, Brackman showcases how Judaism encourages a balanced approach to understanding reality—one that values evidence and reasoned judgment while acknowledging the limitations of human understanding and proof. He argues against the postmodern notion that all perspectives hold equal validity, advocating for a discerning approach that seeks to distance oneself from falsehood and pursue righteousness.

The episode also touches on the compatibility of science and religion, highlighting how both domains seek to navigate the complexities of truth and knowledge through evidence-based judgments. Brackman concludes by emphasizing the importance of standing by one's values, informed by a rigorous examination of evidence and a commitment to ethical principles.

This episode promises to engage listeners with a thought-provoking discussion on the relevance of Jewish wisdom in today's postmodern world, urging a reconsideration of how we understand truth, justice, and morality in a complex and often relativistic society.