SEPTEMBER 5 • 2024 | 23

When a reviewer is dishonest 
or exaggerates the truth, they 
violate Jewish ethical principles. 
Misrepresenting an experience can 
cause undue harm to a business 
and its employees. It’s essential to 
be truthful and fair in your reviews, 
recognizing that your words have 
power.

A BALANCED APPROACH
This doesn’t mean that all negative 
reviews are unethical. Constructive 
criticism can be valuable for busi-
nesses seeking to improve their 
services. However, the way in which 
this criticism is delivered matters. 
 Before posting a negative review, 
ask yourself whether you’ve given 
the business a chance to rectify the 
situation. Could the issue have been 
a one-time occurrence? Did you 
communicate your concerns to the 
business before going public with 
your dissatisfaction?

By approaching reviews with 
empathy and fairness, we can 
uphold the Jewish ethical princi-
ples that guide our lives. Behind 
every business are people striving 
to do their best. Your review should 
reflect the whole experience, not 
just one aspect that might have fall-
en short.
In the age of digital communi-
cation, the Jewish values of truth-
fulness, fairness and compassion 
are more important than ever. As 
we navigate the world of online 
reviews, let us strive to be mindful 
of the impact our words can have 
on others. Whether reviewing a 
restaurant, a hotel, or a doctor’s 
office, let’s commit to being honest, 

fair, and giving the benefit of the 
doubt whenever possible. 
If you feel compelled to leave a 
negative review, consider writing 
two positive 5-star reviews of other 
businesses you frequent. 
Also, consider that too often, 
online reviews are seen in black and 
white. Annoyed customers might 
rush to write a 1-star Google review 
when they really experienced 3-star 
service. Many experiences fall 
somewhere between a 1-star rating 
and a 5-star rating. Perhaps the 
waitress messed up your order, but 
overall, you enjoyed a good dining 
experience. If you still feel the need 
to leave a review, maybe you could 
grant them a 4-star review with an 

explanation of why it wasn’t a full 
5-star experience on that particular 
occasion.
Businesses spend money on review 
maintenance software and agencies 
to handle their online reputation 
management. These services help 
business owners improve how they 
request reviews and respond to nega-
tive ratings. However, the costs spent 
on these services are passed along to 
the consumer with higher prices. 
It’s important to consider the 
Jewish ethics of lashon hara and 
dan l’kaf z’chut when publishing a 
negative review. By doing so, we not 
only support ethical business prac-
tices, but also contribute to a more 
just and compassionate world — 
both online and off. 

Rabbi Jason Miller writes the Jews in the 

Digital Age column for the Detroit Jewish 

News. He is also the president of Access 

Technology in West Bloomfield.

Meer Independent Living boasts an expert, on-site dietitian:
Elizabeth Freyre, RD. Join us as she unveils the incredible
health benefits hidden within your food.

Our talented chef will then bring these vibrant colors to life
with a mouth watering dish that you can enjoy. Don’t miss
this opportunity to nourish your body, tantalize your taste
buds, and experience the Jewish Senior Life difference!

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 | 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Jewish Senior Life | Meer Apartments
6760 W. Maple Road | West Bloomfield, MI 48322

Seating is limited, call Beth now to reserve your space!
(248) 592-5026 TTY# 711 or info@jslmi.org

Discover The Power of Healthy Food During
Color Me Healthy at Meer Apartments

People of all faiths and beliefs are welcome.

“IT’S ESSENTIAL TO BE TRUTHFUL AND 
FAIR IN YOUR REVIEWS, RECOGNIZING 
THAT YOUR WORDS HAVE POWER.”

— RABBI JASON MILLER