Judaism in Biological Perspective: Biblical Lore and Judaic Practices

by Rick Goldberg

Overview

Can there be rational examples of the compatibility between natural science and Judaism? This book offers a strikingly novel perspective on traditional and contemporary Judaic practices. For those with some Judaic knowledge, there are biological explanations in these chapters not seen elsewhere. For those well-versed in evolutionary theory, the authors' perspectives suggest new approaches to the scientific study of religion. Topics include the monistic tendency, biblical polygyny, biblical family conflict, circumcision and proselytes, sacrificial-ritualistic mitzvot (obligations), periodic conjugal separation, Judaic traditionalism, male and female reproductive strategies, and the relationship between costly signaling and prestige.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781317257158
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	12/03/2015
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	240
File size:	2 MB

About the Author

Rick Goldberg

Table of Contents

Part 1 First Principles; Chapter 1 Judaism’s Yetzer as a Biotheological Construct, Rick Goldberg; Chapter 2 Jewish Knowing, Michael Satlow; Part 2 Biblical Lore and Biological Theory; Chapter 3 The Fertility of Prominent Men in the Bible and Ancient Middle East, Laura Betzig; Chapter 4 Intrafamily Conflict in the Bible and Biological Theory, Barash David; Chapter 5 Toward a Sociobiology of the Jews, Konner Melvin; Part 3 Inheritance for Intergenerational Success; Chapter 6 Biosocial Regulation of Husband and Wife, Goldberg Rick; Chapter 7 Traditionalism and Human Evolutionary Success, Palmer Craig, Steadman Lyle, Goldberg Rick; Part 4 Costly Signaling (Handicap) Theory and Jewish Life; Chapter 8 The Handicap Principle in Human Social Interaction, LauraZahavi Amotz; Chapter 9 Making Biological Sense of Judaic Sacrificing, Goldberg Rick; Chapter 10 Why Are Synagogue Services So Long?, Sosis Richard;

Editorial Reviews

The study of religion from an evolutionary perspective also has the potential to radically alter, and I believe deepen, our understanding of religion. Goldberg’s volume bears witness, as well, to this potential, and as such it is a worthy addition to this blossoming field.”
—Evolutionary Psychology

“In recent years, evolutionary anthropologists and psychologists have begun to develop theories of religion as a central part of humanity’s complex social life. Judaism is an ideal case study for exploration of these theories. It is an ancient tradition that has extended its influence and ethical values into much of the contemporary world, serving as a moral compass to millions of people. Rick Goldberg’s book, Judaism in Biological Perspective, explores in evolutionary terms its survival power and ongoing influence. This book is rich in new insights that should be of interest to those interested in Judaism and evolutionary theory.”
—William Irons, Professor of Anthropology, Northwestern University

“This is a book with a powerful punch. Religious traditionalists have withstood the onslaught of post-Enlightenment critique and emerged as enlightened practitioners of ancient traditions. This book is the first one dealing in depth with specific practices of a specific religion—Judaism from a biological perspective has never been treated as seriously and respectfully as it is in this pioneering venture. It should be widely read as the beginning of an honest paradigm shift in the socio-biological sciences.”
—Norman Adler, University Professor of Psychology, Yeshiva College

“Goldberg has made a philosophically important step forward in assembling and editing this work.”
—Jewish Book News

From the Publisher