Polling
Misconceptions of Zionism
In October of 2024, Boundless engaged BSG, a global research firm, to conduct a quantitative survey of the views and sentiments towards Zionism and Israel among the U.S. population, with an oversample on demographic groups less familiar with the term ‘Zionism.’
Key Findings:
Just one-third (34%) of the general population claims to be familiar with the term ‘Zionism’.
Even among those who claim to know what it is, we saw confusion and uncertainty around its meaning. In fact, only 14% could correctly define Zionism.
Providing a simple education on what Zionism is, quadruples the number of people who identify as a Zionist (9% -> 38%).
Messaging around Zionism was able to significantly increase favorability and support for Israel and Jewish people and the belief that Israel should exist as the Jewish state.
The most impactful of those messages explain Israel as a safe haven for Jewish people and the fact that Israel shares Western democratic values.
Most Americans say they are willing to take action against antisemitism, particularly older and educated Americans.
Most Americans don’t recognize genocidal rhetoric (e.g., ‘From the River to the Sea’ and ‘By all means necessary’).