Beyond the doors of the synagogue : self-perceptions of Jewish identity in a modern Canadian society

Abstract

This book presents a mode by which to discuss and assess Jewish

religious participation and religious group membership as a social

phenomenon through the lens of social identity theory. It includes

analyses and discussion of minority groups’ self-perception within broader national contexts, self-esteem as a result of religious group membership, and the dichotomy between religious in-group identity and active belief. If we are able to distinguish ‘belief’ from ‘belonging’ relative to institutional religions, we might better accommodate the needs and values of these groups. This book focuses on a Canadian group of secular Jews, combining quantitative and qualitative methods to illuminate how religious identity, connection and membership affect daily modern life.