Religion/belief do not have to be fundamentalist. One can be very much a believer and very committed to the ethics of the Torah without being fanatic (it is Shabbat and I am typing on DW but it doesn't alter my beliefs).
Many of the baalei teshuva will tell you that taking on a particular mitzvah makes them a better human being -- more considerate, compassionate, committed. I actually think those who have grown up in the Orthodox stronghold are much less "religious" than these newbies.
A very fascinating book by the former Elizabeth Fernea examines how women Behind the Veil perceive themselves (versus how we perceive them).
No religion doesn't have to be fundamentalist. The best religion never is. The real traditionalists tend to be the gentlest, wisest people one can imagine.
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Many of the baalei teshuva will tell you that taking on a particular mitzvah makes them a better human being -- more considerate, compassionate, committed. I actually think those who have grown up in the Orthodox stronghold are much less "religious" than these newbies.
A very fascinating book by the former Elizabeth Fernea examines how women Behind the Veil perceive themselves (versus how we perceive them).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_Warnock_Fernea
I will look at your rec as well!
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