Bad Jews: A History of American Jewish Politics and Identities

A lively, thoughtful history of America's Jews, exploring their complex relationships with national culture, identity, and politics, and the evolving definition of what it means to be a "good" Jew in the modern era.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd

A vibrant and insightful exploration of the complex relationships between American Jews, national culture, identity, and politics, as well as their interactions with one another, is presented in the following text. It delves into the multifaceted history of American Jewry, examining the diverse perspectives and experiences of the Jewish community over the past century. The author, Emily Tamkin, challenges the notion of a definitive definition of what it means to be a "good" or "bad" Jew, particularly in the context of rising antisemitism.

Tamkin argues that there is no single answer to this question, as the American Jewish community is made up of several million individuals with diverse backgrounds and beliefs. American Jewish history, like Jewish history worldwide, has been characterized by transformation and ongoing discussions about who is Jewish, how to be Jewish, and what it means to be Jewish.

Bad Jews is a rich and captivating reflection on 100 years of American Jewish identities and arguments. Through fascinating and diverse interviews, Tamkin explores the intricate story of American Jewishness, examining its evolving and conflicting positions on issues such as assimilation, race, social justice, politics, Zionism, and Israel. She highlights the one truth about Jewish identity: it is constantly changing and evolving.

One of the key themes of the book is the tension between traditional Jewish values and the pressures of assimilation into American society. Tamkin discusses how some Jews have embraced assimilation, while others have fought against it, often leading to conflicts within the Jewish community. She also explores the complex relationship between Jews and other marginalized groups, such as African Americans and Latinos, and how their experiences have shaped their identities and perspectives.

Another important aspect of Bad Jews is the discussion of Jewish identity politics. Tamkin examines how Jews have used their political power and influence to advocate for social justice and equality, as well as how they have faced backlash and criticism for their political positions. She also explores the challenges faced by Jewish communities in different parts of the world, such as Israel and the United States, and how they have responded to political and social changes.

Throughout the book, Tamkin offers thoughtful and nuanced analysis of the complex issues facing American Jews today. She challenges readers to think critically about their own Jewish identities and the role that they play in the broader society. Bad Jews is a valuable contribution to the field of Jewish studies and provides a fresh perspective on the history and evolution of the Jewish community in the United States.

In conclusion, Bad Jews is a lively and thought-provoking exploration of the complex relationships between American Jews, national culture, identity, and politics. Through engaging interviews and thoughtful analysis, Emily Tamkin challenges the notion of a definitive definition of what it means to be a "good" or "bad" Jew and offers a fresh perspective on the history and evolution of the Jewish community in the United States. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of Jewish studies and will be of interest to anyone interested in understanding the rich and diverse tapestry of Jewish life in America.

Weight: 644g
Dimension: 246 x 167 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781787388529