2008 Woodie Awards
Towards an Effort of Intellectual Equality that Simply Must Work
A Response to "Towards an Effort of Journalistic Mercy that Simply Won't Work"
Tikva Hecht
Issue date: 3/29/05 Section: Opinion
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Yeshiva University's definition of Judaic Studies at Yeshiva College (YC) is: "Programs of Jewish studies requiring intensive analysis of classic texts in the Hebrew and Aramaic originals. Designed to deepen ethical and philosophical insight and values, these programs also afford valuable training in research methods and opportunities for independent work" (http://www.yu.edu/pops/yc.asp).
Yeshiva University's definition of Judaic Studies at Stern College is: "Embodying the unique concept that the values of Judaism have a meaningful relevance to the general culture of Western civilization" (http://www.yu.edu/pops/stern.asp).
While both descriptions pronounce a desire for programs that impart the values of Judaism to students, only YC's program includes clear aspirations toward intellectual excellence. The above descriptions are those defined by Yeshiva University, not the individual colleges; they are reflective of a double standard built into YU itself. This double standard is further evidenced by YU Torah Online, which claims to offer "unprecedented access to the Torah treasures of YU." The site includes a sidebar link to YU courses. If you follow this link, you will find a list of courses that come exclusively from YC programs and RIETS. Why is Stern not represented on YU's Torah website? Finally, consider this: there are currently thirty-two Roshei Yeshiva at YU; only two of them are Stern faculty members. Why?
Yeshiva University wants its students to embody the "values of Judaism." Intrinsic to these values is the idea that no matter how much we may cherish our secular academic studies, we must cherish Torah just a little bit more. Regardless of whether or not this philosophy reflects the personal opinions of all faculty members and students, it shapes the foundation and permeates the spirit of the school. The Judaic Studies programs, therefore, naturally act as YU's barometer on standards of academic excellence. Ideally, the university sets this ceiling high, and all other aspects of the school brush constantly against it.
Yeshiva University's definition of Judaic Studies at Stern College is: "Embodying the unique concept that the values of Judaism have a meaningful relevance to the general culture of Western civilization" (http://www.yu.edu/pops/stern.asp).
While both descriptions pronounce a desire for programs that impart the values of Judaism to students, only YC's program includes clear aspirations toward intellectual excellence. The above descriptions are those defined by Yeshiva University, not the individual colleges; they are reflective of a double standard built into YU itself. This double standard is further evidenced by YU Torah Online, which claims to offer "unprecedented access to the Torah treasures of YU." The site includes a sidebar link to YU courses. If you follow this link, you will find a list of courses that come exclusively from YC programs and RIETS. Why is Stern not represented on YU's Torah website? Finally, consider this: there are currently thirty-two Roshei Yeshiva at YU; only two of them are Stern faculty members. Why?
Yeshiva University wants its students to embody the "values of Judaism." Intrinsic to these values is the idea that no matter how much we may cherish our secular academic studies, we must cherish Torah just a little bit more. Regardless of whether or not this philosophy reflects the personal opinions of all faculty members and students, it shapes the foundation and permeates the spirit of the school. The Judaic Studies programs, therefore, naturally act as YU's barometer on standards of academic excellence. Ideally, the university sets this ceiling high, and all other aspects of the school brush constantly against it.