Money Matters will present Judaism’s approach to practical economic dilemmas and monetary quandaries that we face both our personal and professional lives.
The goal of this course is to provide a sensitive, fair, and unshakable economic paradigm grounded in 3,000 years of tradition and practical experience—an ancient yet fresh spin on how we view ethics of money.
Students will emerge from this course with an understanding that only a divine economic system can ensure unequivocal justice while recognizing the virtue in each stakeholder’s position. Money Matters will show how the Torah’s sharply discerning yet holistic rulings inspire us with the confidence to confront any ethical economic dilemma.
Lesson Three: Morally Bankrupt? The Ethics of Debt Discharge
In times of old, when a debtor was not able to repay his debts, he was sold as a slave or thrown into prison. Today, we have bankruptcy laws that protect individuals from this fate. But is it ethical to borrow without repaying? If someone earns the money later in life, should they be obligated to repay their settled debts? This lesson explores the Jewish legal perspective on bankruptcy, emphasizing how we can incorporate secular local laws and customs into Jewish law.
