Evolving Forms and Functions: Reconsidering Local Studies in Light of a Century of Practice

Abstract

In the past century conducting a study of the local Jewish community has become a hallmark of American Jewish communal planning. Indeed, at least 205 local community studies have been conducted in ninety-seven different localities since 1920. At this point there is a set of routine practices about how best to carry out these studies — habits that warrant a reconsideration in light of the many changes in methods, cost, technology, and the overall funding (or lack thereof) of research to meet information needs regarding American Jews. We might ask, Are small communities different from larger ones in terms of the expectations that ought to be in place regarding possible study methodologies? Are local community studies the best way to learn about topics of significance regarding the evolving experience of Jews in America? Needed is a national strategy for identifying the pressing knowledge needs of the American Jewish community.