The Kosher Debate: Rabbis and Robotaxis in San Francisco

The introduction of self-driving cars, or robotaxis, in San Francisco has sparked a debate among local rabbis about their compatibility with Shabbat observance. While some see the potential for these autonomous vehicles to offer mobility options for observant Jews who traditionally refrain from driving on Shabbat, others raise concerns about the technology's adherence to Jewish law. Issues such as the car's reaction to a passenger's weight or position, the need for passenger activation, and the overall impact on the spirit of Shabbat are among the considerations. Ultimately, the rabbis emphasize the importance of preserving the essence of Shabbat and caution against using technology simply because it is possible.