essay

The Hasidim of North America: a review of the literature

persistence and flexibility : anthropological perspectives on the american jewish experience • Albany, N.Y. • Published In 1995 • Pages: p 183-207

By: Belcove-Shalin, Janet S..

Abstract

In this article, Belcove-Shalin notes that in the past two decades (ca. 1960-1980s), ethnographic studies of Hasidic life in North America have definitely reached a take-off point, and although the yield so far has been comparatively small, yet the works produced are encouragingly diverse and increasingly reflect the methods, theories, and themes of contemporary social science (p. 183). The first part of this document reviews the theoretical and methodological premises underlying contemporary Hasidic studies, it then proceeds to examine five substantive areas of research: charismatic leadership, recruitment (i.e., proselytizing) practices, cultural performance, self-identity, and tradition and social change. The paper concludes with a suggested agenda for future research.

HRAF PubDate

1996

Region

North America

Sub Region

Regional, Ethnic and Diaspora Cultures

Document Type

essay

Evaluation

Creator Type

Ethnologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

Analyst

John Beierle ; 1995

Field Date

no date

Coverage Date

ca. 1960-1987

Coverage Place

United States

Notes

Janet S. Belcove-Shalin

Includes bibliographical references (p. 201-207)

LCCN

87024465

LCSH

Jews