“I have been to Israel on several occasions; and each visit was a truly majestic form of affirmation. My sense is that the typical Jew very much values the existence of Israel.”
The Interviewee – Laurence Thomas, Professor of Philosophy and Professor of Political Science at Syracuse University. I have been fortunate to have and live a very wonderful life. I had my Ph.D. by the age of 26; and I began my 5th year of teaching as a tenured associate professor.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“For me personally, the existence of Israel is very, very, very, very important. I have been to Israel on several occasions; and each visit was a truly majestic form of affirmation. My sense is that the typical Jew very much values the existence of Israel. Indeed, for the typical Jew, the State of Israel is none other than a moral gift from the Almighty.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“I often defend Israel in rather subtle ways. One of my favorite approaches is to ask anyone critical of Israel whether she or he makes strong criticisms of other nations or people. After all, it is not possible for any person to believe that Israel is the only bad state in the world.”
Do you affiliate yourself with a specific confessional division in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox division in Israel religious establishment?
“Interestingly, I attend an Orthodox synagogue. But it does not occur to me to criticize folks who do not attend an Orthodox synagogue.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“Israel’s policy towards the Diaspora is quite positive.”
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?
“In two words: very good.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown? Is it organized? Are there community activities?
“As I have already indicated, I attend an Orthodox synagogue. The rabbi is very good and the people show tremendous purity of heart. On the one hand, there is no one who exhibits a sense of superiority. On the other hand, there is a very clear commitment.”
Is there a question you feel should be added to the project’s questionnaire?
“What is your biggest dissatisfaction with Israel?”
