A vegetarian diet is not only consistent with Judaism but, argues Schwartz
(emeritus, Coll. of Staten Island; Judaism and Global Survival), the diet
best fitted to basic Jewish values. In this third edition of his 1982 and
1988 book (which includes updated scientific and medical references and a
list of web sites), the author shows how Jewish beliefs in showing
compassion
toward animals, protecting human health, preserving the environment,
conserving resources, sharing with hungry people, and pursuing peace are
best
served by vegetarianism. Throughout, the text is calm, fully documented,
and
very convincing. Schwartz includes biographies of famous Jewish
vegetarians
(among them, writers S.Y. Agnon and Isaac Bashevis Singer),
"action-centered"
ideas on how to promote vegetarianism, and typical questions and answers
on
Jewish and general issues regarding vegetarianism. A well-done treatise on
a
subject of increasing interest; highly recommended.
Marcia Welsh, formerly with Guilford Free Lib., CT
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
