Silence Is a Fence Around Wisdom

Abstract

This article presents the anti- and pro-group forces through the dialectic of assimilation versus aloofness, in the context of ultra-orthodox society. The article illustrates these forces through the tension between speaking and keeping silent, manifest in such group phenomena as splitting into two subgroups and the “cautionary” social role. This is followed by a discussion of different styles of leading the group that enable a more dynamic movement between these two forces and that promote effective group work and an authentic and voluntary professional socialization process.