In 2024, Brandeis University will host the annual conference, “Democracy and its Alternatives: The Origins of Israel’s Current Crises.” This event comes at a tumultuous time for Israel, which has faced significant challenges since its establishment 75 years ago. From widespread protests against proposed judicial reforms to the violent aftermath of the Hamas attacks on October 7, this conference aims to explore these crises within their broader geopolitical and historical contexts.
The conference marks the culmination of the inaugural cohort from the Schusterman Center’s Institute for Advanced Israel Studies, a unique program that unites scholars globally to delve deep into critical themes within Israel studies. The fellows will lead discussions on the second day, revealing insights drawn from their research and perspectives.
In partnership with the Center for Jewish History in New York City, the Schusterman Center has also created a special series through the podcast “Tel Aviv Review,” which presents interviews with the fellows about their foundational work and contributions to ongoing debates surrounding Israel’s challenges.
The keynote address, “Religion, Democracy, and Peacebuilding: Reflections from the Field,” intends to engage with the complex interplay between faith and politics. Notably, Rabbi Menachem Froman’s views illustrate the contentious dynamics of religious influence in Israel’s peace processes, acknowledging voices that challenge secular approaches to conflict resolution.
As religious movements rise in political spheres globally, including in the US and India, the influence of religious ideologies on Israeli and Palestinian strategies cannot be ignored. There is a pressing need to examine if religious figures could foster peacemaking efforts rather than act as barriers in pursuit of democratic ideals. This event will facilitate critical discussions among activists and scholars to envision a more harmonious future for the region.
The 2024 conference at Brandeis University, “Democracy and its Alternatives: The Origins of Israel’s Current Crises,” addresses Israel’s recent challenges, including protests and the aftermath of conflict. It features scholars from the Schusterman Center’s Institute for Advanced Israel Studies and includes a special podcast series sharing insights from fellows. The keynote will explore the intersection of religion and peacebuilding efforts in the region.
The “Democracy and its Alternatives” conference will critically examine Israel’s current challenges against a rich tapestry of historical and contemporary factors. By bringing together scholars, activists, and those of faith, this event aims to pave the way for innovative approaches that embrace religious dialogue as a vital component of peacebuilding. The insights gained here may illuminate pathways toward a more stable future for all parties involved.
The article centers around the 2024 “Democracy and its Alternatives” conference at Brandeis University, addressing pressing issues concerning the state of democracy in Israel amidst recent crises. With a backdrop of social upheaval and violence, the conference seeks to contextualize these events through scholarly discussions and historical analysis, while also recognizing the potential role of religious belief in peacebuilding efforts.
Original Source: www.brandeis.edu
