Individualism Challenges Community

Publication Date: November 2007

Publisher: Jewish Telegraphic Agency (New York, N.Y.)

Author(s): Jacob J. Schacter

Research Area: Culture and religion; Social conditions

Keywords: Communal Engagement; Community Building; Jewish Identification; Jewish Continuity

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

As part of JTA's series on "Reimagining Federated Philanthropy," the author looks at the challenge of ensuring meaningful Jewish communal growth in an age and society where individualism reigns supreme. He states that above all else, we face a challenge of balance: balancing family and careers, balancing work and play, balancing engagement with the universal elements of American culture with the unique content of our Jewish commitments. He argues that as valuable as personal giving and individual volunteerism is, engagement with the broader agenda of the Jewish people is also important.