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Ruth Wisse, 93, Advocates Freedom in Jefferson Lecture

3/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ruth R. Wisse delivered the Jefferson Lecture in the Humanities, becoming the oldest person to do so.
Her speech stressed conserving freedom in America and reflected on her Jewish heritage.
In a separate debate, Coleman Hughes and Glenn Greenwald questioned the Israel lobby's influence on U.S. foreign policy.
Hughes argued the lobby is not all-powerful, citing anti-BDS federal failures and Israel's caution before the Iraq War.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1943, the Jefferson School of Social Science aimed to promote Marxism and community engagement through adult education. It peaked in attendance around 1947 with about 5,000 students but faced scrutiny during the McCarthy era, leading to its closure in 1956. This historical backdrop informs current debates on American foreign policy and the Israel lobby's influence, as highlighted by Ruth R. Wisse's recent lecture.

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Story summary

Ruth R. Wisse delivered the Jefferson Lecture in the Humanities, becoming the oldest person to do so.
Her speech stressed conserving freedom in America and reflected on her Jewish heritage.
In a separate debate, Coleman Hughes and Glenn Greenwald questioned the Israel lobby's influence on U.S. foreign policy.
Hughes argued the lobby is not all-powerful, citing anti-BDS federal failures and Israel's caution before the Iraq War.

1 / 2