Jewish Polity and American Civil Society
Communal Agencies and Religious Movements in the American Public Square
Alan Mittleman editor Jonathan D Sarna editor Robert Licht editor
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Rowman & Littlefield
Published:23rd Jul '02
Currently unavailable, and unfortunately no date known when it will be back
This book explores the political engagement of American Jews through their communal institutions, analyzing their influence on public affairs and policy.
The book Jewish Polity and American Civil Society provides an in-depth examination of the civic and political involvement of American Jews, highlighting the role of their communal and denominational institutions. It delves into how these various branches of the organized Jewish community strive to influence public affairs and shape societal norms. Through a historical lens, the text reveals the evolution of Jewish engagement in significant issues such as civil rights, church-state relations, and American foreign policy over the past century.
In Jewish Polity and American Civil Society, the author analyzes the motives, strategies, and tactics employed by different Jewish groups. By evaluating their successes and failures, the book presents a comprehensive overview of the impact these organizations have had on public debate and policy-making. The narrative not only recounts historical events but also provides a critical assessment of the effectiveness of Jewish political action in America.
Moreover, the book explores the underlying public philosophy that shapes American Jews' understanding of their civic duties and political engagement. This examination of the intersection between Jewish identity and civic responsibility offers valuable insights into how communal values inform political actions, making Jewish Polity and American Civil Society an essential read for those interested in the dynamics of American civil society and the Jewish experience within it.
Both books [Jewish Polity and American Civil Society and Jews and the American Public Square both edited by Alan Mittelman, Jonathan D. Sarna, and Robert Licht] furnish the reader with a great deal of useful information about Jews in America, while the essays included in the books are characterized by competence and earnestness throughout. * The Weekly Standard *
Both books [Jewish Polity and American Civil Society and Jews and the American Public Square both edited by Alan Mittelman, Jonathan D. Sarna, and Robert Licht] will be of interest to students of American Judaism. * First Things *
This anthology is the most comprehensive treatment to date of the participation of the organized American Jewish community in the American public square. Covering both the major communal and religious groups, this collection of insightful articles by the leading experts in their fields is both well integrated and masterfully written. It is a must-read for anyone concerned with organized American Jewry today—indeed, for anyone interested in the interaction of American religious and ethnic groups with the larger society. -- Steven M. Cohen, Hebrew University
There is no better description of the organization and behavior of the American Jewish community in the public square. This is must-reading for those interested in American Jews as well as those concerned with religion in public life. The book is outstanding. -- David Allen, therapist
This is an extraordinary anthology. This volume is a significant achievement. The editors and authors are owed a debt of gratitude by community leaders, scholars, and students. * American Jewish History *
Jewish Polity and American Civil Society is an extremely timely review of historic Jewish community agencies as well as of the social policies practiced by the major 'denominations' of Jewish observance. The essays make evident how fully the Jewish people have adopted American ways while still insisting on distinctive goals and particular objectives. This volume is a signal contribution to the growing literature on religion and civil society, and a valuable resource concerning the several strands of Jewish tradition in U.S. history. -- John F. Wilson, Princeton University
ISBN: 9780742521223
Dimensions: 227mm x 149mm x 24mm
Weight: 562g
432 pages