Overcoming Zionism

-- A call to transform Israel into a secular democracy by a leading writer —

'This book is absolutely fundamental for those who reject the unfortunate confusion between Jews, Judaism, Zionism and the State of Israel — a confusion which is the basis for systematic manipulation by the imperialist power system. It convincingly argues in favour of a single secular state for Israelis and Palestinians as the only democratic solution for the region.'
Samir Amin, director of the Third World Forum

'Joel Kovel's uncompromising criticism of Zionism is rooted in a very deep feeling of empathy and solidarity with his fellow-Jews caught in the death-trap of the Zionist adventure. The way out Kovel is suggesting – a bi-national Israeli-Palestinian state – may be challenged, but definitely not ignored.'
Michel Warschawski, former director of the Alternative Information Centre in Jerusalem

Joel Kovel argues that the inner contradictions of Zionism have led Israel to a ‘state-sponsored racism’ fully as incorrigible as that of apartheid South Africa and deserving of the same resolution. Only a path toward a single-state secular democracy can provide the justice essential to healing the wounds of the Middle East.

Kovel is well-known writer on the Middle East conflict. This book draws on his detailed knowledge to show that Zionism and democracy are essentially incompatible. He offers a thoughtful account of the emergence and disintegration of Zionism that integrates psychological, political, cultural, economic, and ideological levels.

Ultimately, Kovel argues, a two-state solution is essentially hopeless as it concedes too much to the regressive forces of nationalism, wherein lie the roots of continued conflict.

Praise for Kovel's previous book White Racism:
“[A] singularly impressive and well written book.” The New York Times

Praise for Red Hunting in the Promised Land:
'[A] provocative and stimulating book.' Library Journal

'Fantastic.' Kirkus