can jews give up their uniqe customes in order to become a part of the society
And What Did the Modern Era Usher In? Can Jews be like all other people? In the 18th and 19th centuries, that question troubled philosophers in Europe who sought to advance the tenets of the Enlightenment, including tolerance and civic equality.
Various thinkers lauded the ability to reshape human beings in the image of citizens free in spirit and noble in deeds. That ability also included ‘improving’ the Jews and turning them into productive members of society.
In exchange for the promised transformation, the Jews were required to put aside customs that differentiated them from the surrounding society and surrender the internal autonomy enjoyed by their communities.