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Dr. Shari Lowin
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“Do Golems Dream of Electric Shuls?” Moral Responsibility of Technology
Title: “Do Golems Dream of Electric Shuls?” Moral Responsibility of Technology
Program: Open Circle Jewish Learning Texts and Traditions
Instructor: Rabbi-Cantor Michael McCloskey (see bio)
Day/Time: Tuesdays 8-9:30pm Eastern Time
Dates: October 17, 24; November 7, 14, 21, 2023
Location: Online via Zoom
Fee: $200 Financial scholarships available
In Jewish folklore, characters often create a golem or clay humanoid imbued with protective power. Israeli professor of mysticism and folklorist Joseph Dan called the golem “the most important twentieth-century contribution of Hebrew literature to world literature.” By examining the role of the golem in Hebrew literature, we will explore questions these texts raise about the moral responsibility of modern creators of technology, particularly of A.I. and robots, and whether such beings have agency. Additionally, what does each successive iteration of the motif reveal about human nature and the specific challenges of the era? Together, we’ll investigate the intertextuality of this marvelous golem humanoid through the Hebrew Bible, the Talmud, among the Medieval Pietists, in 16th century Prague, through retellings by Elie Wiesel, Isaac Bachevis Singer, Cynthia Ozick, Michael Chabon, and Pete Hamill, through film, comics, and even Hebrew slang.
Hebrew College Open Circle Jewish Learning is for learners of all backgrounds.
Canadian and other registrants from outside of the US: please email Cindy Bernstein to complete your registration. We apologize for the inconvenience.
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