The Making of Modern Zionism: The Intellectual Origins of the Jewish State

by Shlomo Avineri
The Making of Modern Zionism: The Intellectual Origins of the Jewish State cover
Good Books rating 4.25
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  • ID: 7656
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-16
  • ISBN: 9780465094806
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2017-04-04
  • Reviews: 3

The Making of Modern Zionism delves into the intellectual history of Zionism, challenging the notion that it was solely a response to anti-Semitism. Instead, it presents Zionism as part of the broader movement for self-determination. Through profiles of major thinkers like Moses Hess, Theodore Herzl, and David Ben Gurion, the book traces the development of Zionist ideas from the early 19th century to the establishment of Israel. /n/n In an expanded edition, the book also examines the rise of religious Zionism since the 1970s and the shift in Israeli society and politics towards more radical nationalist and religious trends. This comprehensive analysis offers a deeper understanding of one of the most influential political movements of our time.

Reviews
American Political Science Review · NL Zucker · 1982-01-01
intriguing 4.00

The book provides a comprehensive intellectual history of Zionism, highlighting its evolution and the rise of religious Zionism. The reviewer appreciates the depth of analysis but notes some areas could benefit from more contemporary perspectives.

This review delves into the intellectual origins of Zionism, praising the author's thorough exploration of key figures and ideologies. The reviewer finds the historical context particularly enlightening, especially the section on religious Zionism. However, they suggest that incorporating more recent developments might provide a more nuanced understanding. Overall, it's a valuable resource for those interested in the political and intellectual foundations of Zionism. The reviewer also notes that while the book is dense, it's well-structured and accessible for academic readers.

Quick quotes

    Avineri's analysis is both comprehensive and nuanced, offering a deep dive into the intellectual roots of Zionism.

    The rise of religious Zionism since the 1970s is particularly well-documented and insightful.

    While the book is a classic, it could benefit from more recent updates to reflect contemporary developments.

American Historical Review · RB Fowler · 1982-01-01
excellent 4.25

The book is praised for its detailed examination of Zionist thought through the writings of key figures. The reviewer finds it a significant contribution to the understanding of Zionism's intellectual origins.

This review highlights the book's meticulous exploration of Zionist thought, particularly through the lens of significant 19th and 20th-century figures. The reviewer appreciates the depth of analysis and the clarity with which complex ideas are presented. They note that the book is a valuable addition to the literature on Zionism, offering insights that are both historical and intellectual. The reviewer also mentions that the book is well-suited for academic audiences, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject. They find the author's approach balanced and informative, making it a worthwhile read for those interested in the intellectual foundations of the Jewish state.

Quick quotes

    Avineri's work is a meticulous exploration of Zionist thought, offering profound insights into its intellectual origins.

    The book is a significant contribution to the understanding of Zionism, particularly through the writings of key figures.

    This is a valuable addition to the literature on Zionism, providing a comprehensive overview of its intellectual foundations.

The New York Times · 1981-11-08
great 4.50

The book is noted for its insightful exploration of Zionism, with the reviewer highlighting the author's expertise in political theory. The historical context and analysis of key figures are particularly commended.

This review from The New York Times praises the author's expertise and the book's insightful exploration of Zionism. The reviewer finds the historical context and analysis of key figures particularly commendable. They note that the book provides a clear and comprehensive understanding of the intellectual origins of the Jewish state. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to shed light on complex ideas and present them in an accessible manner. They suggest that the book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the political and intellectual history of Zionism. The reviewer also mentions that the book is well-written and engaging, making it a worthwhile read for both academic and general audiences.

Quick quotes

    Shlomo Avineri is ideally suited to the task of shedding light on Zionism, and he has in fact done so in this new book.

    The historical context and analysis of key figures are particularly commendable.

    The book provides a clear and comprehensive understanding of the intellectual origins of the Jewish state.

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