Genetics, mass media, and identity : a case study of the genetic research on the Lemba and Bene Israel

Author(s)

Bibliographic Information

Genetics, mass media, and identity : a case study of the genetic research on the Lemba and Bene Israel

Tudor Parfitt and Yulia Egorova

Routledge, 2006

  • : hbk

Available at  / 3 libraries

Search this Book/Journal

Note

Includes bibliographical references and index

Description and Table of Contents

Description

This is the first book to explore the effect of genetic research on the Lemba Judaising community of Southern Africa and the phenomenon of Israelite identity. The science of genetics as relayed by the media is perceived by laymen as being irreproachably objective 'hard science': its disinterested 'scientific' findings appear immensely impressive and may therefore act as a powerful catalyst for change. In this case, an oral tradition cherished by many of the Lemba that they are of Jewish origin appears to be supported by recent DNA testing, which has deeply affected the narrative and religious identity of the group and the way the tribe is perceived in the Western world. International in appeal, this topical text brings together cutting-edge research on the social, cultural and ethical implications of genetics and the study of Judaising movements across the world. This book will be of interest to researchers and students of Jewish history, genetic anthropology, race and ethnicity studies, and religious and cultural studies.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction 2. Between Art and Science: 'Non-Scientific' Aspects of Genetics 3. Jews and Genetics 4. Are Jews Black? 5. The Lemba 6. The Lemba Tests: Mediatisation and Responses 7. The Bene-Israel 8. Genetics Research on the Bene-Israel 9. Conclusion

by "Nielsen BookData"

Details

Page Top