“Distancing” from Israel in Jewish American Life

Abstract

This article is a commentary on the current discussion about the “distancing” thesis in American Jewish attitudes toward Israel. After reviewing the data and theory put forth in support and opposition to this thesis, the conclusion of my remarks is that the research and hypothesis on this subject remain too abstract to serve as a demonstration of either firm position. Instead, it is proposed that a macroscopic view of this subject take into consideration new conditions in Middle Eastern and European affairs, as well as changing political leadership in American politics and Israeli politics alike. To retain a microscopic approach, however sensitive the data, can only result in premature and arguably erroneous consequences. In short, this is a time for neither undue optimism or pessimism, but a heightened sense of carefully monitored globally inspired realism.