Liberal Individualism and Communitarianism: Whither the Future of Jewish Life?


 

Publication Date: September 1997

Publisher: Jewish Communal Service Association of North America

Author(s): Norman Linzer

Research Area: Culture and religion; Politics

Keywords: Jewish Identification; Political Behavior; socioeconomic status

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

In American society, there is ongoing debate between the philosophy of liberal individualism, which underlies the Republican party, and communitarianism, which lends ideological support to the Democratic platform. Jewish tradition predominantly reflects the communitarian approach, and the focus on individual autonomy and rights is anathema to the development of a strong Jewish community.

In Journal of Jewish Communal Service, v.74 no.1, Fall 1997.