Socialism of Fools: Anti Semitism on the Left

In this brief manifesto for Jewish progressives, Lerner cogently argues that anti-Semitism on the Left is due to a failure to understand the unique nature of Jewish oppression. Through a broad sketch of Jewish history, he delineates how Jews, feared by ruling powers as challengers to authority, have been allowed to acquire just enough wealth and authority so that others--from Polish peasants to urban African Americans--can deflect their angry discontent onto them. Lerner convincingly applies this analysis to Jews in America and refutes charges from the Left that Jews today are oppressors and not oppressed. He calls on Jewish progressives to examine their internalized anti-Semitism and to learn how to distinguish legitimate criticism of Israel from Israel-bashing. Unfortunately, Lerner's argument is marred by vague generalities--such as constant references to a ``Left'' that is ill-defined--and by a didactic tone and rampant self-promotion, which give the false impression that Tikkun , the journal Lerner founded and edits, is the only self-respecting progressive Jewish voice. (Nov.)