Date Approved

2026

Degree Type

Open Access Senior Honors Thesis

Department or School

Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology

First Advisor

Kendra Smith, MS

Second Advisor

Robert Erlewine, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Grigoris Argeros, Ph.D.

Abstract

This project uses Charles H. Cooley’s theory “The Looking-Glass Self” to magnify the depth of Jewish identity. As a Jewish student, I have firsthand experience in experiencing society normalize acts of antisemitism and it having a negative impact on my Jewish identity. Within my research, 200 Jewish college students from around the world were provided with a platform to anonymously reflect and report on what being Jewish means to them and how their social surroundings impact their Jewish identity. This concept tells that one’s identity or concept of identity is based on how others see them or how they believe they appear to others. The three elements within Cooley’s theory are: imagining how we appear to others, imagining their judgment of that appearance, and developing feelings based on those perceived judgments. The research data compiled, is written into poetic forms. The poems offer a unique perspective as to the component of Jewish identity being touched upon, in addition to a “behind the poem” analysis to ensure the reader has a complete understanding of the Jewish identity component being affected by society. Some topics covered are Jewish values Jewish students incorporate into their daily lives, their favorite Jewish customs and practices, and experiences with antisemitic verbal or physical attacks.

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