Abstract
In this monograph, Brandeis University president Jehuda Reinharz addresses American perceptions of Israel. Both within and without the Jewish community, Americans lack essential knowledge about the current realities facing Israel and their historical context. While American support for Israel has varied over time, recent events have made the collection and dissemination of accurate information more important than ever. President Reinharz argues for the creation of scholarly Middle Eastern Studies centers in colleges and universities across the nation and advocates a variety of dissemination strategies, including support for educating students, community leaders and members of the media about the Middle East.