Warped Fantasies
Jews observing the resurgence of anti-Semitism in the 21st century may be forgiven for thinking that they inhabit “a warped fantasy.”
Eichmann, Arendt, and “The Banality of Evil”
Richard Wolin’s review of a new book about Adolf Eichmann caused a stir, mainly about Arendt. His exchange with Seyla Benhabib on the banality (or not) of evil.
Arendt, Banality, and Benhabib: A Final Rejoinder
Richard Wolin pens a final rejoinder in his debate with Seyla Benhabib regarding Hannah Arendt and Adolf Eichmann.
Richard Wolin on Arendt’s “Banality of Evil” Thesis
Seyla Benhabib responds to Richard Wolin's critique of her review of Bettina Stangneth's Eichmann Before Jerusalem.
Thoughtlessness Revisited: A Response to Seyla Benhabib
In The New York Times, Seyla Benhabib took issue with Richard Wolin’s critique of Hannah Arendt. Wolin responds.
Publishing Godliness: The Lubavitcher Rebbe’s Other Revolution
Much of the discussion of the Rebbe's legacy focuses on his charisma, his saintliness, and his organizational skills, but first and arguably foremost, he was a book publisher.
Rethinking Jabotinsky: A Talk with Hillel Halkin
The Jewish Review of Books and Yale University Press hosted an evening for Hillel Halkin’s brilliant new biography of Vladimir Jabotinsky at YIVO.
Missing Menachem
When Menachem Begin led the Likud to victory in 1977, Yitzhak Ben-Aharon spoke for many in the Israeli political establishment when he said that “if this is the will of the people, we have to replace the people.” Begin’s image has evolved, but he remains a contested figure.
Cognitive Dissonance
Gordis replies to his critics and outlines his positive vision for the future. His proposal may surprise you.
Learning from History
Jonathan Sarna looks back at a time when both Reform and Orthodox Judaism in America seemed imperiled.