num_pages: 217
description: In "Why Jews Should Not Be Liberals," Larry Sternberg explores why the majority of American Jews support Liberal values and beliefs, and then explains why he believes this is the wrong political philosophy for them. Sternberg believes that American Jews should instead embrace Conservative beliefs, which he says are more consistent with the traditional beliefs of Judaism. He ties together the Conservative principle of individualism with the Jewish commandment, set forth by God to Moses, of the individual's responsibility for his own actions. Sternberg also explains that the original Jewish immigrants from Germany and Western Europe supported Conservative views, and it was not until the 1930's that Jewish politics changed to support Liberals. Through the use of his conversational style of writing, Sternberg is easily able to draw the reader into such controversial subject matter as religion and politics without provoking hostility from the reader. While his convictions are sure and strong, Sternberg is able simply to state his beliefs in a non-confrontational manner, through which he hopes to educate and enlighten his readers about the history of the politics of American Jews. His purpose is not to discount Jewish liberal goals, but rather to bring into harmony their political philosophy with traditional Judaism.
language: English
title: Why Jews Should Not Be Liberals
titlecomplete: Why Jews Should Not Be Liberals
ratings_count: 6
publisher: Ivy House Pub Group