Since the turn of the century, American Jews have been closely associated with reform movements that seek to improve social conditions, to help the disadvantaged, and to achieve international peace. Jewish religious traditions and social circumstances have disposed many Jews to view politics and power idealistically. However, traditional expressions of Jewish idealism seem ill-suited to new realities, such as dealing with poverty, relationships with Black Americans, Soviet expansion, and the emergence of a worldwide anti-Israel bloc of nations. These problems and choices are presented against the backdrop of 4 decades of Jewish intellectual and social life, from the post-War "golden age" through the turmoil, anxiety, and eventual regeneration of the past 20 years. (APG)