Ariella Megory Humanities and Social Science
Moving Left: Examining Ideological/Political Shifts within Israeli Society
I am studying the Israeli perspective of the Israeli-Palsestinian Conflict as a case study to understand how personal perspectives shift in directions contrary to the dominant national discourse. I will be interviewing individuals who have shifted their perspective from the right-wing ideology common in Israel today to a more liberal (pro-Palestinian/anti-Zionist) viewpoint. My research will shed light on the types of life-histories which promote ideological resilience and curiosity, by identifying common life experiences, interpersonal interactions, and historical contexts which this small group of Israelis share.
Message To Sponsor
The substantive portion of my research will be conducted in Jerusalem. Living in Jerusalem, I will have the opportunity to personally interview members of a vibrant, though shrinking, Israeli pro-peace community. I will use the SURF funding to cover my flight and living expenses. Without this financial support, I would have to conduct phone interviews from home and would not have access to such a diverse or abundant sample of people and spaces for analysis.
Major: Cultural Anthropology
Mentor: Rutie Adler, Near Eastern Studies