Q&A: Moral Quantification Between Two Choices from Different Domains
Moral Quantification Between Two Choices from Different Domains.
Question
Hello,
Rabbi Michael Abraham sometimes mentions the chocolate dilemma (the desire to eat healthy versus the desire to eat tasty food). Usually the dilemma is mentioned as an illustration that it is possible to decide between considerations from different domains, and with the help of that example the Rabbi shows that one can decide between halakhic and moral considerations.
My question is about the quantification and the method of deciding. I am debating between two alternatives: studying in yeshiva, for example for another year and a half after returning from the army, or going into officer training. It is clear to me that on a personal level I would develop more by returning to yeshiva, but from my experience in the army I got the impression that there is a real need for good officers. How am I supposed to decide?
And alongside that—does the Rabbi think it is worthwhile to go into officer training in the IDF? (Obviously this varies from person to person, but I’d be glad to hear some general insights.)
This is about a rear-echelon officer track, and I like the role I would be returning to very much.
Thank you!
Answer
It’s not related to chocolate. That example does not show that it is possible to decide, but rather that there is no contradiction.
I can’t tell you what is preferable. If you are thinking in terms of a long-term Torah career, then it seems to me that it is better to continue studying in yeshiva. If not—then I have no ruling. It depends on how significant each thing is for you, and how talented you are at it and how much you can contribute through it.