Torn at the Roots
Book Description
In the decades following World War II, American Jewish communities found themselves at a crossroads, grappling with fundamental questions about identity, values, and political engagement. Michael E. Staub's compelling exploration reveals how these communities navigated intense debates that would reshape their collective understanding of what it meant to be authentically Jewish in modern America.
Rather than accepting the widespread assumption that Jewish Americans held uniform liberal views, Staub uncovers a far more complex reality. Through careful examination of three pivotal decades, he illuminates the passionate discussions that emerged around critical issues of the era, from civil rights and international conflicts to evolving perspectives on family structures and personal relationships.
This thoughtful analysis demonstrates how Jewish individuals and organizations wrestled with profound questions about the relationship between their spiritual heritage and their political choices. The conversations that unfolded were neither simple nor predictable, challenging readers to reconsider assumptions about religious communities and political alignment.
For those interested in understanding how spiritual communities navigate change and internal diversity, this work offers valuable insights into the dynamic process of collective self-examination. Staub's research reveals that the path toward defining authentic religious identity often involves embracing complexity rather than seeking easy answers, making this exploration relevant for anyone curious about the intersection of faith, culture, and civic engagement.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~11 hours)
📄 Length: 392 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Judaism
- ✓ Explore SOCIAL SCIENCE
- ✓ Explore Religion et politique
- ✓ Explore Jews, politics and government
- ✓ Explore Joden
- ✓ Explore Politieke conflicten
- ✓ Explore Libéralisme
- ✓ Explore Jews, social conditions
