Traditional Judaism
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Conservative Judaism faces an identity crisis rooted in problematic terminology that undermines its core mission and values. Through critical analysis of the movement's name and motto "Tradition and Change," this research reveals how current nomenclature creates unintended perceptions of religious compromise rather than authentic commitment. Educational, political, and philosophical examination demonstrates three critical issues: widespread misinterpretation of the motto with disproportionate emphasis on "change," unwanted political connotations of "Conservative," and insufficient differentiation from other Jewish denominations. These terminological challenges contribute directly to membership losses, particularly among devoted young adults who increasingly seek Orthodox alternatives. Evaluation of public perception, institutional effectiveness, and ideological clarity supports rebranding the movement as "Traditional Judaism"—a name that better captures its fundamental commitment to maintaining Jewish tradition while acknowledging historical evolution. This proposed change would align American Conservative Judaism with Israeli Masorati movements, eliminate political associations, and reposition the movement as authentically traditional rather than compromised or defensive.

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Published 1980
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Elliot Dorff