On the Word of a Jew: Religion, Reliability, and the Dynamics of Trust

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 14 January 2019
Publisher: Indiana University Press

Religion has a significant impact on how we perceive the reliability of others. Throughout history, religious differences have played a role in shaping trust and distrust between individuals and communities. In the past, being Jewish was often seen as a marker of unreliability, particularly in areas such as jurisprudence, medicine, politics, academia, culture, business, and finance. However, this perception has evolved over time.

The essays in this volume examine how and when Jews were recognized as reliable and trustworthy in various fields. They explore issues of trust and mistrust, shedding light on how caricatures of Jews have been perpetuated through religious, political, and legal systems. While the volume focuses on Jewish and Christian relations, it also examines perceptions of Jews and Jewishness from the biblical period to the present, across different regions and traditions, including Ashkenazi and Sephardi.

Through their analysis, the authors highlight the complexities of trust and its role in everyday interactions involving Jews. They explore how religious beliefs, cultural norms, and historical experiences shape perceptions of reliability and trustworthiness. They also examine the ways in which individuals and communities can build and strengthen trust, despite religious differences.

Religious differences continue to be a topic of debate and discussion in today's world. However, by examining the historical and contemporary relationship between religion and trust, this volume provides valuable insights into the complex dynamics that shape our perceptions of others. It encourages readers to think critically about the role of religion in shaping trust and to explore ways in which we can build more inclusive and trustworthy communities.

Weight: 514g
Dimension: 153 x 227 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253037404