Expanding the Conversation
Expanding the Conversation
Podcast Description
The Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) presents Expanding the Conversation, a podcast that brings the thought-provoking discussions and dynamic scholarship of JTS directly to you. Drawing from live events, lectures, and panel discussions, this podcast goes beyond the moment—offering not only recordings of these programs but also exclusive interviews with speakers, scholars, and thought leaders.Each episode explores the critical issues shaping the Jewish world today, from contemporary cultural moments to enduring questions of Jewish thought, practice, and identity. Whether you’re looking for intellectual engagement, spiritual insight, or a deeper connection to Jewish learning, Expanding the Conversation invites you to join the dialogue.Subscribe now and bring the rich conversations of JTS wherever you go.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast addresses critical issues impacting the Jewish community, such as the evolution of Zionism, the Israel-Diaspora relationship, and interpretations of Jewish identity. For example, episodes include insights from scholars like Dr. Jonathan Sarna on the historical context of North American Zionism, technological influences on political movements, and the reclamation of Jewish terms in contemporary dialogue.
The Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) presents Expanding the Conversation, a podcast that brings the thought-provoking discussions and dynamic scholarship of JTS directly to you. Drawing from live events, lectures, and panel discussions, this podcast goes beyond the moment—offering not only recordings of these programs but also exclusive interviews with speakers, scholars, and thought leaders.
Each episode explores the critical issues shaping the Jewish world today, from contemporary cultural moments to enduring questions of Jewish thought, practice, and identity. Whether you’re looking for intellectual engagement, spiritual insight, or a deeper connection to Jewish learning, Expanding the Conversation invites you to join the dialogue.
Subscribe now and bring the rich conversations of JTS wherever you go.
What does it mean to be a Jewish and democratic state?
In this episode, Dr. Roy Peled—legal scholar and former youth activist—reflects on the legal and political forces shaping Israel’s identity. Speaking at the Israel at a Crossroads convening, Speaking at the Israel at a Crossroads convening, Peled traces the unfinished story of Israel’s constitution and the impact of Basic Laws on minority rights—especially the Arab minority. With clarity and nuance, he unpacks the political forces behind the Nation-State Law, the shifting role of the judiciary, and the tensions between national identity and democratic principles. Peled brings both scholarly insight and personal conviction, inviting listeners to engage deeply with questions of power, belonging, and constitutional change in Israel today.
Bio of Roy Peled
Discussion Questions
- Constitutional Identity
Dr. Peled discusses the absence of a formal Israeli constitution. What do you think are the implications—positive or negative—of defining a state’s identity without a written constitution? - Majority and Minority
Peled highlights a lack of clear vision for the role of the Arab minority in Israel. How might a state balance national identity with full inclusion of minorities? What models from other countries, if any, come to mind? - The Role of the Courts
What tensions emerge between legal decisions that protect individual rights and those that shape public or national identity? How should courts navigate these tensions? - Nuance in Debate
Dr. Peled criticizes the polarization of conversations around Israel, both in Israel and abroad. What helps you hold space for nuance when discussing Israel’s identity and minority rights? - Personal Values
Dr. Peled identifies as a Zionist who believes in equality and democracy. How do your personal values shape how you engage in conversations about Israel? What assumptions do you bring to the table?
Show Notes Video
- Roy Peled speaking at Israel at a Crossroads
Further Reading
- Basic Law: Israel — The Nation State of the Jewish People (Originally adopted in 2018)
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