American Modern Orthodoxy must first recognize the problem: namely that it is not as intellectually vibrant or creative as it once was. The steep costs of the Modern Orthodox lifestyle are inimical to fostering careers in Torah and Madda, the foundations of Modern Orthodoxy. This phenomenon has helped create a culture that is increasingly materialistic and narrow. Beyond problem-solving the tuition-crisis, the community needs to think how it can best encourage alternate career paths. Perhaps offer Modern Orthodox artists, Torah scholars and scientists some kind of financial incentives, encouraging and celebrating their pursuits. Communities could also have them play a greater role in schools, synagogues and other settings, heightening their status and thereby giving Modern Orthodox Jews a truer appreciation of the depths of these fields.
Sharon Flatto, “The Modern Orthodox Brain Drain: Part II”, The Jewish Week (1 May 2015), 24.