These two Chassidic villages were created explicitly to
insulate their inhabitants from the influences of the modern world. The fear is
that any exposure at all will undermine everything that has been painstakingly
taught in the effort to keep their communities holy and pure.
Why is this such an existential danger?
When people live in isolation, exposed only to the narrow
views and customs of their own community, and then inevitably come into contact
with the outside world - only to discover that it is not nearly as evil as they
were taught - it can call their entire way of life into question. That includes
the observance of halacha itself. While this is not the usual outcome, it is
certainly a contributing factor among those who ultimately abandon observance.
I understand the desire to shield children from the
immorality of the broader culture. I even sympathize with that goal. But
isolationism is not the best way to accomplish it. Nor is its kissing cousin,
extreme insularity.
Many people defend this lifestyle as a matter of choice and
religious freedom. That is certainly true. But at what price? Is it worth it?
And is there a better way to achieve the same goal?
I believe there is.
Some degree of insularity is necessary and even beneficial.
But there is a point at which it becomes absurd and counterproductive.
Obviously, I would not allow a young child to watch an R-rated movie. But would
I allow that child to have a smartphone? I’m not so sure. And if not, should I
forbid them from befriending a child who has one?
These are legitimate questions without easy answers. Where
do we draw the line between necessary insularity that strengthens a child and
excessive isolation that ultimately harms them?
The Charedi world is increasingly moving in the direction of
greater insularity—approaching outright isolationism. As a Centrist looking in
from the outside, I believe this is a serious mistake.
I was therefore pleasantly surprised to see Rabbi Avrohom Neuberger, a frequent contributor to Mishpacha Magazine, make precisely this case in his latest column. His message closely mirrors my own, though he presents it in the context of Lakewood-style communities...
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