Anti-Zionism: A Jewish History by Benjamin Moser review
A biographer’s affecting account of prominent critics of Zionism from Hannah Arendt to Nan Goldin
TL;DR
- Benjamin Moser's book features 12 portraits of Jewish individuals who opposed Zionism.
- The book aims to demonstrate that debates against Zionism were once mainstream within Jewish communities.
- Figures like Rabbi Aaron Samuel Tamares and Nan Goldin are presented as critics of Zionism.
- The work explores the personal transformations of individuals like Ronnie Kasrils and Jacob Israël de Haan, who became anti-Zionists.
- The impact of the occupation of Palestine and the devastation wrought on Palestinians are central themes disturbing Moser's subjects.
- The book touches upon historical figures such as Hannah Arendt and Felicia Langer, whose views evolved concerning Zionism and its implications.
- Avi Shlaim's experience of being 'radicalised' in Israeli archives is mentioned, highlighting contradictions in official narratives.
- Moser reflects on his own perspective and how it might have differed had he grown up with the Palestinian narrative.