Click here for an article by Rabbi Daniel Sperber on the importance of morality, sensitivity and empathy in Psak Halacha.

Here is the abstract from the originla articel as it appeared in the Edah Journal.


Abstract: This study attempts to delineate the characteristics required of a rabbi and a decisor (poseq), both in their personal behavior as well as in their decision-making policy (pesiqah). Based on normative rabbinic sources, it stresses the need for absolute moral rectitude, sensitivity and empathy for the aggrieved, independence of thought and the courage to
express personal legal opinions in a public manner. There must be a genuine desire to find solutions for halakhic problems in the spirit of compassion and understanding, thus contributing to the spiritual betterment of the individual and the community.