NEW BOOK: "Self-Defense: A Jewish Manifesto" by Benjamin Kerstein

Now available! Author to speak at the Z3 Conference November 9

David H.—Across the Diaspora, Jews are facing questions of physical security and the long-term viability of their communities. Do we wait for the antisemitic storm to pass? Do we make plans to move to Israel or elsewhere? Or is there a third option, to stay and fight?

Benjamin Kerstein, a longtime friend and colleague of mine, and now an Associate Fellow at the Z3 Institute, has written a powerful book arguing for the third option. In SELF-DEFENSE, he goes deep into both the nature of the moment we’re in and the pervasive Jewish culture that blinds us to the merits and possibility of fighting back—not just spiritually and politically, but also physically. Is it “goyish” to buy a gun, to bulk up and learn to fight, or to embrace not just “security” but also offensive strategies that take the fight to the enemy? Or has self-defense, in all its forms, always been fundamental to Jewish identity?

After the murderous attacks in Washington DC, Boulder, Manchester, and elsewhere, it feels like the threat of violence against Jews is everywhere. Is there something we can do about it? If you care about this question, you must read this book now. Order here:

Also I’m also delighted that the author will appear at the upcoming Z3 Conference in Palo Alto on November 9. There are still tickets available! Get them here: