Very interesting article. However, I disagree with the premise of the author. My thinking has always been that Jews are so liberal because liberalism meshes well with the Jewish values of helping the underprivileged. Mr. Podhoretz dismisses this claim by stating that if that were really true, than the Orthodox community, presumably, the strictest adherants to jewish values, would be the most liberal sector of the religion, when, he correctly states, in fact they are generally the most conservative group in the religion. Mr. Podhoretz , IMO, is flawed, however, because he confuses the strict adherance to Jewish laws and traditions of the Orthodox community with the closest relationship with Jewish values. I challenge that assumption and posit that Jewish values are equally as strong and important in the non-Orthodox community. The reason the Orthodox community is so much more conservative is a misguided and misplaced fear promulgated in the community that any Democrat is bad for Israel. Whenever I speak to Orthodox Jews about politics, that is always the number one concern that is brought up about why Democrats cannot be trusted. This is all to say that I do beleive that it is Jewish values that associate Jews so strongly with liberalism. Jews came to this country with nothing and so they know first hand how difficult an impoverished life can be. It is our duty as a religion to help others currently less fortunate than ourselves. Sure, Jews have done very well for themselves in America, but that does not mean that we can’t now help others acheive that greatness. (Thanks to Charlie’s Dad for the link.)
Horshammed!
Noun
1. Rural city in the western part of Victoria, Australia. Prominent winner of Australia’s “tidiest town” award in 2001. Has great fireworks. Usage: “Let’s go visit Horsham and watch the fireworks!”
Verb
1. To beat a player, in any type of competitive card playing game by one unit. i.e. 3-2 and K-Q. Usage “You horshammed me!”
Why Are Jews Liberals?
