While Theodor Herzl captures the imagination of many Jews, Zionism also vies with competing ideas.
Perhaps the most powerful alternative is assimilation – complete disappearance within the surrounding cultures. There are also those who don’t want to completely assimilate but wish Judaism to be seen only as a religion, without territorial ties.
Socialism too exerts a strong appeal and pits itself against Zionism.
Finally, there are Orthodox Jews, many of whom view Zionism as an affront, a secular trap for the unwary.
Photo credit: Library of Congress
