The Role of Scholarship in the Shaping of Jewish Identity

Inspired by the Enlightenment, yet still confronted with continued discrimination, 19th-century Jewish scholars took the study of Judaism outside the long standing rabbinic traditions. Through the “scientific” study of Judaism (Wissenschaft des Judentums), they brought the era’s new spirit of universalism and scientific inquiry to the treatment of Jewish history and texts. In the process, these scholars revolutionized Judaism from within, setting the stage for the creation of movements and identities that still shape Judaism today—including the Reform, Conservative, and Modern Orthodox movements, as well as Zionism and Jewish nationalism.

Since then, the academic study of Judaism has continued to be deeply interconnected with the formation and transformations of Jewish identities across the globe. On March 1st, the Katz Center will join the Leo Baeck Institute at the Center for Jewish History in New York City for a symposium on the relationship between Jewish scholarship and Jewish life.

A distinguished group of scholars and institutional leaders, including several Katz Center fellows, will connect past with present through lectures and roundtable discussions on the public role and ongoing impact of Jewish studies.

A full schedule and list of participants will be posted shortly.

Free and open to the public.