Bad Faith Episode 476 - The Forgotten History of Jewish Anti-Zionism (w/ Zachary Foster)
May 22, 2025
Zachary Foster, a historian of Palestine and founder of Palestine Nexus, explores the overlooked history of Jewish anti-Zionism. He discusses how this historical context disrupts myths justifying Israeli oppression today. Foster highlights the complexities of Jewish identity and the ideological rifts within the community, especially post-World War II. He also examines the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and critiques U.S. foreign policy, raising crucial questions about activism, journalism, and the real implications for Palestinian rights.
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Widespread Jewish Anti-Zionism History
- The majority of world Jewry opposed Zionism from the 1870s to the 1940s.
- The myth that all Jews have always embraced Zionism is false and challenges common assumptions.
Assimilation vs. Zionism Conflict
- Many Jews opposed Zionism because they sought integration and assimilation in their home countries.
- Zionism's call for Jewish relocation threatened their efforts to become equal citizens elsewhere.
Jewish Socialist Opposition to Zionism
- Jewish socialist Bundists in Eastern Europe opposed Zionism as nationalist and class divisive.
- Zionists' focus on emigration clashed with socialist ideals of fighting antisemitism locally.
