Synopsis
Throughout his distinguished academic career Professor David Vital has in one way or another sought to emphasize, and to analyze, one of the truly revolutionary changes of our time: the re-engagement of the Jewish people - as a collective entity - in contemporary world affairs and international politics. Whether as a nation (the diaspora) or as a state (Israel), after a hiatus of nearly 2000 years, world Jewry is once again a recognized global factor, possessing both status and influence, to be reckoned with on the chessboard of diplomacy and statecraft.
The essays in this volume discuss and assess the philosophies and writings of Professor David Vital. They aim to develop his work within modern diplomacy, issues relating to modern Jewish history, and within the State of Israel and its conduct of foreign relations.
Booknews
Seventeen essays from friends, colleagues, and former students of David Vital (political science, Tel Aviv U.) consider the Jews in global politics. They focus on three main themes emphasized in Vital's work: modern diplomacy and interstate behavior, Israel and its foreign relations, and the Zionist movement. Topics include, for example, new patterns in military intervention, Israeli attitudes towards the UN from 1948-1960, and Jewish-Americans and the transnational battle for Jewish identity. Distributed in the US by ISBS. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)