Q&A: Style
Style
Question
Hello Rabbi Michi,
I very much enjoy the Rabbi’s articles and posts; I enjoy the sharp, rational, and groundbreaking thinking.
But what keeps me from accepting the Rabbi’s words is the fact that I see far too much of the Rabbi’s provocative, dismissive, and humiliating style toward anyone he doesn’t take kindly to, and the sometimes petty manner of writing. Because of that, I don’t know how much of this is mixed into the opinions and outlooks the Rabbi publishes.
I would be glad if the Rabbi would address what I wrote in a logical way, and not latch onto superlatives and pettiness as sometimes happens.
Thank you very much
Answer
Hello.
First, I prefer to receive questions through the responsa section on the site.
I didn’t understand what exactly in your remarks I am supposed to address. You think I use that style toward anyone I don’t like, but you are mistaken. I use it toward those who deserve it. I have already explained that describing lowly things and behaviors is not a humiliating style, but an appropriate description of lowly things. Do you think the Torah demeaned and humiliated Balaam or Pharaoh improperly? How did the Sages dare to call him wicked, and publicly at that?
Beyond that, if you learn from my words, I would expect you not to tie the arguments to the person making them. Read the arguments and decide what seems right to you and what does not. What difference does it make, for the purpose of your decision about the content of my words, whether I humiliate and demean everyone I don’t like?