Why do so many people have trouble distinguishing between anti-semitism and anti-zionism?

Question

It seems to me that they are two very seperate things and yet objection to Israel is assumed to be objection to Jewish people. I thought the same way until I was introduced to the Jewish movements of Jews Against Zionism and a few others. Reading about them was very interesting and enlightening.

Answer 1

The problem is that the most outspoken anti-zionists tend to be very anti-Jewish as well. They see "Zionists" even among Jewish groups that are not particularly supportive of the secular state of Israel.

Answer 2

I would like to start this by saying that Zionism is racism, pure and simple.

The problem is that most people are actually so afraid of being seen as offensive, they just assume that everything that affects Jews is inherently Jewish. Thus being against Israel is anti-Semitic. If people treated Jews like any other ethnic group they wouldn't get away with have the things which pass under society's collective radar.

So, to answer your question, it is because most people are afraid of being seen in a poor light.

Answer 3

I don't think anyone has that problem!

The Arabs are all Anti-Zionists and the WASP Americans are all Anti-Semetic!

We seem to have that quite under control.

We make jokes equally about Jewish Doctors and Lawyers or NY Taxi drivers and their prayer stuff.

The Arabs and Persians I know tell me, they can't be Anti-Semetic, because they are Semites!

Arabs and Jews do agree they are both Semites. Well, Arabs and Isralies, natural Israelis!

If there's a problem it's because you're either a sheltered Jew or Arab. If you were a WASP you woudn't be making this distiniction!

Answer 4

Now I gotta go find a dictionary...thanks!

Answer 5

huh