Call Me Back - with Dan Senor Zionophobia - with Judea Pearl
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Feb 19, 2026 
Judea Pearl, Turing Award-winning computer scientist and vocal defender of Zionism, reflects on his life from pre-state Israel to modern debates. He explains why he coined “Zionophobia” and explores violence, failed peace efforts, indigeneity and sovereignty. The conversation covers language, education as the true battleground, and the risks of eroding bipartisan support for Israel.
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Childhood In Founding-Era Bnei Brak
- Judea Pearl grew up in Bnei Brak after his family arrived in 1924 and his grandfather helped found the town.
- He describes a childhood immersed in building a functioning society geared toward statehood and rescue of European relatives.
A Mixed-Community Upbringing
- Bnei Brak mixed socialists, conservatives, and Haredim who lived together with minimal conflict.
- Pearl recalls playing with children across those groups and attending both socialist kindergarten and conservative school.
Experiencing The War Of Independence
- On May 14, 1948 Pearl remembers being warned to stay close to home and soon facing Egyptian bombing in Bnei Brak.
- He describes children huddling under bombardment and neighbors insisting Israelis would prevail.
