On Whose Authority Should We Rely?
In the previous chapter, we evaluated arguments in favor of dismissing climate change based on the concept of bitachon (trust in Hashem). Now we will look at arguments in favor of the same conclusion, but based on a different perspective. As Torah Jews, we have to ask ourselves what sources of authority should inform our understanding of the world. On the one hand, Torah will necessarily play a pivotal role in how we view the world. At the same time, living as we do in a scientific age, we have to consider what role science and other non-Torah sources of authority should or should not play in this regard.
The following are the arguments we will be examining:
Why the silence about climate change in Torah sources?
If climate change is such a prominent world-changing issue, we should expect to be given some guidance about it by the Torah sources. The apparent absence of such guidance needs to be examined.
Does climate change line up with Hashem’s promises regarding the future?
Various promises regarding the future don’t seem to align well with the prospect of climate change.
Why the limited attention given to climate change by our Torah leadership?
Torah Jews are supposed to receive leadership from their rabbinic leaders. If we were meant to show concern about climate change, we would expect them to be expressing more concern about it, but this is rarely happening.
The seeming inconsistency between the values of Torah and environmentalism
Environmentalism seems to manifest as a new religion, with its own belief systems, and climate change and saving the world are a central tenets of its faith. We already have our own religion and are not interested in adopting a new one.
Can we rely on secular scientific viewpoints?
Our attitude towards climate change should be shaped by Torah values. Is it appropriate to put our faith in a scientific consensus not built on a Torah world-view in forming our views?
