Misconceptions About Israelis

While there are many misconceptions about Israel and its inhabitants, five common stereotypes center around Israeli culture, religiosity and politics.

In a country with a richly diverse population including Jews from all over the world, Arabs, Christians, Baha’is, and Druze, among others, Israel may be guilty of more than a few cliches… but maybe not the ones most would assume.

Big Ideas

1. Stereotypes aren’t always correct.
2. Israeli society is very diverse and can’t be put in a box.
3. Israel is home to people who represent a multitude of religions, ethnic backgrounds and belief systems.

Essential Questions

1. What are Israelis really like?
2. What do we miss when we judge people based on stereotypes?
3. How can we better understand traits, behaviors and ideas that are often exhibited by Israelis?