Social Networks and Jews

Abstract

This paper reviews the place of social network analysis in Jewish studies. What social networks are and their roots in classic social theories are discussed. The role of Jewish networks in the Diaspora since about 100 BCE is noted, and the few examples of empirical research are referenced. The idea of social circles is presented and their application to cultural circles and especially Jewish situations is discussed. The revival of modern Hebrew literature is a case in point and the network that surrounded Yoseph Brenner, a key figure in that revival during his time in London, is graphed as a sociogram. The relationships depicted, that transcended international boundaries, provided the emotional and financial support without which there would not have been a revival of Hebrew literature. A modern example of the networks of leading power figures in top Jewish organizations in 1995 is shown. Deficiencies of asking “How many of the people you consider to be your closest friends are Jewish?” in surveys are shown. A better alternative, exploring the closest friends, Jewish or non-Jewish is proposed. One of the few Jewish studies using this procedure showed the organizational and institutional embeddedness of Jewish circles and friendships. I conclude by insisting that a list of people is not a network and lists or proportion of friends who are Jewish does little to advance the study of the place of Jews in the modern world and the structure of their institutions. It is possible to do true network studies, but by and large we have not done so.