Hi all. I just wanted to thank everyone who has contributed here. I am a big history buff, and am currently studying the Israel_Palestine issue.
I just finished a book entitled A History Of The Holocaust by Yehuda Bauer. I don't take any authors word for fact, and so it will continue to be an in depth study for me. Over all it is a thoughtfull account of the rise of Zionism and it's connections to modern Israel (mostly the Holocaust Era however), and somewhat heavy on the blame game.
Most notable is the explaination on "what is a Jew"? There are many different sects of Judiaism, just as there are in Protestant Christianity. I was suprised to learn that the Orthodox Jews were very much anti-Zionism. That many Jewish persons are athiest, agnostic, etc!
I think history is very valuable as to understanding evolving thought and custom, but I also feel that alot can change in a generation or two. The here and now must also hold great consideration.
So thanks again for this discussion. Discussion is learning IMO. One liners and innuendo doesn't help much, but in depth discussion of issues is most helpful.