Civil discourse between the political divides is turning less and less civil. Indeed, the sheer lack of desire to try to understand those with opposing political opinions (or political identities) and, instead, to vilify them is negatively impacting communities across our country.

In response, the Pardes Center for Judaism and Conflict Resolution (PCJCR) has created a new initiative: Mahloket Matters: How to Disagree Constructively – The Beit Midrash Way. At the core of the traditional beit midrash, study hall, are havrutot, study pairs, critically studying together mahloket, conflicting opinions, found on every page of classic Jewish texts. This methodology of studying text can be used to increase the desire and ability to understand and engage more constructively with conflicting political opinions today, improving civil discourse.

Join Rabbi Michael S. Jay for 6 stand-alone classes and learn, in a safe-space, how to better navigate the inherent contentiousness of our times.

Unit Topics include:

1) Meet or Refuse to Meet? From Korah and Moses to Political Adversaries Today

2) Fear War or Trust Peace? From Jacob and Esau through Chamberlain and Menachem Begin to Today

3) Xenophobia or National Security? From Pharaoh and the Israelites through Japanese Internment to Today

4) Coexist or Separate? From Isaac and Ishmael to Israelis and Palestinians Today

5) “Fake News” or Uncovering the Truth? From Joseph and his brothers through Jefferson and Hamilton to Today

Cost: Free for CAI Members; $240 for Nonmembers

Please include the names of all attendees in the notes section.