Historical Sociology of Jewish and Gentile Relations
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Werner J. Cahnman, Jews and Gentiles. A Historical Sociology of their Relations
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
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Subtitle: Judith T. Marcus and Zoltan Tarr, eds., New Brunswick, Transaction Publishers, 2004, 253 p.
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Michael Löwy
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Werner J. Cahnman, Jews and Gentiles. A Historical Sociology of their Relations
Year: 2005 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.2409
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Werner J. Cahnman (1902-1980) was a German-Jewish sociologist who emigrated to the United States and was trained in the rich tradition of German historical sociology. His posthumously published work, "Jews and Gentiles: A Historical Sociology of their Relations," edited by Judith T. Marcus and Zoltan Tarr, presents an ambitious socio-historical synthesis exploring the relationships between Jews and non-Jews (Gentiles) from antiquity to modern times. The book, while lacking footnotes, is not merely a popularization of the topic but rather an interpretative sociological analysis that highlights the tension between symbiosis and conflict throughout their history.
Paradigmatic Relationships: A Central Concept
One of the pivotal concepts in Cahnman's work is his exploration of the "paradigmatic" situation of Jews within Christian societies, particularly since the Crusades. He challenges the Weberian definition of Jews as pariahs and instead leverages American sociologist Robert Park's notion of the "marginal trading people." Cahnman illustrates how, over the medieval period, Jews became associated with roles of merchants and intermediaries, rendering them outsiders—present within various societies but never fully belonging. He further discusses the transformation of Jewish identity and status during periods of emancipation, suggesting that the relationships throughout history can be understood as variations on this central social pattern. However, Cahnman's hypothesis on the static nature of these relations is critiqued for downplaying significant historical shifts, such as Jewish emancipation and the horrors of genocide.
Conclusion
Cahnman's analysis is particularly relevant in examining the evolution of antisemitism, which he views as having transitioned from theological antagonism to socio-economic conflict and ultimately to a racially motivated ideology. His exploration of the "mythical Jew" and the rise of biological racism marks a critical juncture in understanding modern antisemitism as a secular adaptation of earlier religious prejudices. Although the book features incomplete sections on Jews in the Soviet Union, North America, and Israel, it remains a vital contribution to sociological literature, shedding light on the complex, often violent historical dynamics that have governed Jewish-Gentile relations. Cahnman's work serves as a valuable resource for comprehending the ongoing complexities of cultural identity and intergroup relations.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
Who is Werner J. Cahnman and what is his significance?
Werner J. Cahnman (1902-1980) was a German Jewish sociologist who emigrated to the U.S. and is known for his significant essays on Weber and Toennies. His posthumously published work provides a historical sociology of Jewish and Gentile relations.
What is the main theme of Cahnman's book?
Cahnman's book explores the historical and socio-economic relationships between Jews and non-Jews from antiquity to modern times, emphasizing the dynamic tension between symbiosis and conflict, particularly during the medieval period.
How does Cahnman define the Jewish situation in Christian societies?
Cahnman rejects the notion of Jews as 'pariahs' and instead uses Robert Park's concept of 'marginal trading people.' He describes Jews as outsiders and intermediaries in medieval societies, often relegated to specific roles such as merchants or usurers.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Historical Sociology of Jewish and Gentile Relations”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Religion:
Religion plays a significant role in the historical sociology of Jews and Gentiles. The initial theological antagonism between the Church and the Synagogue serves as a backdrop to understanding their evolving relationship, emphasizing how conflict and symbiosis manifest in this social dynamic.
2) Anti (Amti):
Anti-Semitism, as discussed in the book, illustrates a transition from religious to racial forms of prejudice. This 'anti' sentiment towards Jews evolved from traditional manichean representations to modern biological racism, reflecting significant shifts in societal attitudes and perceptions of Jewish identity.
3) Nature:
The nature of Jewish identity in Christian societies is explored throughout the book, highlighting how Jews were relegated to specific social roles, such as merchants or intermediaries. This nuanced examination showcases the constructed nature of their societal positioning and the resulting conflicts.
4) Book:
The book 'Jews and Gentiles. A Historical Sociology of their Relations' is a comprehensive socio-historical synthesis edited by Judith T. Marcus and Zoltan Tarr. It is rooted in historical sociology and addresses the complex dynamics of Jewish and Gentile relations across centuries.
5) Separation (Separateness, Separate, Separated):
Separation is a key concept in understanding the relationship dynamics between Jews and Gentiles. The absence of an externally imposed ritual separation sets Jews apart from traditional pariah groups, influencing the evolution of their identity within broader Christian societies.
6) Merchant:
The designation of Jews as 'merchant' figures emerges prominently in Cahnman's analysis. This role not only reflects their economic function in society but also underscores the perception of Jews as outsiders, creating a stigma that shaped interactions with Gentile communities.
7) Language:
Language, particularly Yiddish, serves as a crucial marker of Jewish identity throughout history. The retention and adaptation of the archaic German language, infused with Hebrew words, illustrate the cultural continuity and transformation of Jewish communities, especially in Eastern Europe.
8) Violent:
The violent aspects of Jewish history are starkly depicted in Cahnman's work. The text draws parallels between ancient massacres and modern genocide, emphasizing how violence defined the experiences of Jews in various contexts, notably during the Crusades and the Holocaust.
9) Refuge:
The concept of refuge is illustrated through the narratives of Jews fleeing persecution in medieval Germany, seeking safety in Poland and Eastern Europe. This search for refuge speaks to the broader mobility and survival strategies of Jewish populations historically.
10) India:
[see source text or glossary: India]
11) Depth:
[see source text or glossary: Depth]
12) Union:
[see source text or glossary: Union]
13) Door:
The 'door' metaphorically represents the opening of society to Jews during emancipation. However, this access was often limited to individuals rather than communities, reflecting the complexities and barriers that remained even as new opportunities emerged.