In this series of letters from the Spring 2013 issue of a publication, several important discussions are summarized.

Betty Friedan's experience at the International Woman's Year World Conference in Mexico City in 1975 revealed anti-American, anti-Semitic, and anti-Zionist sentiments, which overshadowed feminist discussions.

In his book "Moynihans Moment: Americas Fight against Zionism as Racism," McGill University historian Gil Troy recounts the pivotal 1975 United Nations resolution declaring Zionism a form of racism.

In "The Peace and Violence of Judaism," Robert Eisen reflects on the impact of religious conflicts, particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the role Judaism has played in exacerbating or mitigating violence.

Peter Beinart's book "The Crisis of Zionism" addresses the disconnect between young, liberal American Jews and Israel, arguing that the American Jewish establishment's unwavering support for Israel despite its policies is alienating the next generation.

Karl Marx's rare empathetic depiction of the Jews of Jerusalem during the Crimean War in 1854 depicts their misery amidst Muslim oppression and intolerance, standing out in contrast to his usual comments on Judaism.

Norman Podhoretz, a Jewish intellectual and influential figure of neoconservatism, rose from a poor background in Brooklyn to become a leading literary critic.

Chaim Gans, a political philosopher and law professor at Tel Aviv University, makes a notable contribution with his book "A Just Zionism: On the Morality of the Jewish State," which revisits and refashions the liberal argument supporting Zionism.

The Tent City Protests that began in Tel Aviv last summer, stirring up to 450,000 protesters throughout Israel in a show of both size and civility, have left a lasting impact on Israeli society, particularly the youth.

Born in Zamosc, Poland in the 19th century, Rosa Luxemburg, a prominent figure in socialist parties in Poland and Germany, dedicated her life to fighting capitalism.

In August 1929, Arab riots in Jerusalem and Palestine resulted in the deaths of over 400 Jews, leading to a complex response in the Jewish community.

The text discusses the role of Arab Bedouins in World War I, particularly in the context of the British defense of the Suez Canal against the Ottoman Empire and German-led forces.

The text discusses the author's journey from idealism to disillusionment in Israel, starting with a desire to make a difference in the country but ending in a sense of cynicism and alienation towards politics and society.

Irving Kristol was a prominent figure in neoconservatism, having transitioned through various ideological phases before settling on a neo-Orthodox Jewish perspective.

A symposium discusses the revolutionary events in the Middle East since the Tunisian protests and their implications for Israel, exploring various books and authors relevant to understanding the causes and outcomes of these revolutions.

Gilbert Achcar, in "The Arabs and the Holocaust," explores the role of Arabs during the Holocaust, arguing that most were not complicit in Nazi atrocities and should not be blamed for them.

Daniel Bell, a prominent figure among the New York intellectuals, emerged from a Jewish immigrant neighborhood with leftist influences.

The text discusses the aftermath of the uprising in Egypt, focusing on the symbolism of protesters cleaning up Tahrir Square as a sign of a desire for a new civic responsibility.

Sayyid Qutb, an Egyptian intellectual, went from a liberal nationalist to an Islamist figure, with his radical views detailed in works like "Milestones" while imprisoned.

In "A Language for The Faithful: Reflections on Tradition" by Meir Buzaglo, the author challenges the prevailing views on moderate traditional Judaism in Israel, emphasizing its spiritual and intellectual integrity.

Arthur Goldreich, an undercover ANC operative and close collaborator of Nelson Mandela, was imprisoned by the South African government in 1963, escaped, and sought refuge in Israel, becoming a vocal opponent of apartheid.

Moses Montefiore, a wealthy and influential English Jew in the 19th century, embarked on a significant journey to Russia in 1846 to advocate for greater rights for the Jewish population there, facing resistance from officials and Tsar Nicholas I. Despite encountering challenges, Montefiore's visit became legendary and marked a pivotal moment in Jewish emancipation politics.

The Jewish Review of Books aims to fill a gap in thoughtful and accessible Jewish criticism and commentary amid an abundance of Jewish publications.

In the text "What the U.S. Can and Can't Do in the Middle East," the authors Dennis Ross and David Makovsky reflect on the ability of the United States to influence the Middle East peace process.

The author and his wife planned to live among settlers in Elon Moreh to write a book, hoping for unbiased observation.