105032389_2786343078252576_1725429768391950296_o

Hebrew University Mourns the Passing of Prof. Zeev Sternhell

(Jerusalem, June 21, 2020)—The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU) mourns the passing of Professor Zeev Sternhell.  Sternhell was a world-renowned expert on fascism and nationalism and Emeritus Professor at HU’s Political Science Department.  He was 85 years old and is survived by his wife Ziva and two daughters, Tali and Yael.

In 1969, Sternhell became a professor at HU.  He served as the director of the Levi Eshkol Social Research Institute from 1975 to 1977, and as head of HU’s Department of Political Science from 1974 to 1978.  In 1982, he was appointed full professor at the University and in 1989, he was appointed to the Leon Blum Chair of Political Science.  Sternhell was awarded the Israel Prize in Political Science in 2008, and was elected to the Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities in 2010, and to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2016.  He retired from teaching in 2003.

“Zeev received international academic recognition for his studies on fascism and modern nationalism”, shared Professor Dan Avnon, head of the HU’s Department of Political Science. “His books and articles were translated widely ​​and used by scholars and students around the world.  On a personal level, Zeev was a role model for us: a person who combined academic excellence with a deep commitment to society and country.  Our thoughts are with his wife and daughters.”

Prof. Asher Cohen, president of HU, added “We are deeply saddened by the news of Zeev Sternhell’s passing.  He was a leading researcher in political thought and his innovative research changed the way our scientific community perceives of ideological movements, in general, and radical movements, in particular.  He was an honest man, one who tirelessly pursued peace and justice.”

Scroll to Top