The American Prospect magazine claims to foster informed discussions and dispel myths. However, its recent article by Robert Kuttner, “You Can Take This as Gospel,” published on August 25, misaligns with this mission. The piece outlines a potential revival of progressive religion in American politics, yet it perpetuates inaccuracies on several critical issues—particularly regarding Israel, the perceptions of American Jews, and the views of Christian fundamentalists.
Misrepresentation of Israel’s Actions
Kuttner broadly accuses Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, yet he fails to provide supporting evidence for such a serious claim. In fact, over 500 scholars specializing in legal, historical, and genocide studies reject the assertion that Israel has engaged in genocide. Additionally, Kuttner makes startling accusations, including ethnic cleansing in the West Bank, without substantiation. Crucially, he neglects to mention the terrorist organization Hamas, whose actions led to escalated violence in the region. This omission skews the narrative surrounding Israel and conflicts, leaving readers uninformed about crucial context.
False Assumptions Regarding American Jewish Sentiment
Kuttner suggests that the majority of American Jews believe Israel has committed genocide in Gaza. However, recent polls contradict this assertion. According to a September 2025 Washington Post survey, a slim majority—51%—of American Jews do not consider Israel’s actions as genocide. Furthermore, a June 2026 Associated Press survey revealed that only 30% of American Jewish adults perceive Israel as having committed genocide, indicating that Kuttner’s claims lack grounding in reality. His failure to verify or contextualize this information misguides readers about the true sentiments within the American Jewish community.
Incompatibility of Support for Israel and Liberal Values?
Kuttner argues that there is an inherent conflict between American Jews’ support for Israel and their commitment to liberal values. He implies that pro-Israel sentiment has enslaved American Judaism to lobby groups, but this oversimplification perpetuates an age-old anti-Jewish trope about Jewish control. Most Reform Jews and organizations, like the Anti-Defamation League, see no incompatibility between advocating for Israel and upholding liberal values. By ignoring the complexities surrounding this issue, Kuttner does a disservice to the discourse.
Another glaring omission in Kuttner’s article is the role of antisemitism within the political left. He attributes the distancing of Reform Judaism from liberalism solely to its support for Israel, disregarding the increasing instances of antisemitism that have arisen in progressive circles. Prominent scholars like Jonathan D. Sarna have noted that the progressive left has, at times, alienated Jewish communities. Such context might elucidate why some Jews feel excluded from spaces that supposedly advocate for liberalism.
Unfounded Claims About Christian Fundamentalists
Kuttner further critiques Christian fundamentalists, positing they adopt an instrumental view of Zionism purely as a route to the Rapture. This claim neglects data revealing that many Evangelicals hold sincere, caring views toward Israel and its people, separate from eschatological beliefs. Research has shown that a significant majority of both NAE Evangelicals and other Protestants believe their support for Israel stems from moral and humanitarian concerns, rather than purely theological motivations.
In his sweeping generalizations, Kuttner overlooks the nuances that characterize the relationships Christians and Jews have with Israel. These relationships are often grounded in mutual respect and care, countering the narrow view he presents.
In conclusion, Kuttner’s article perpetuates myths and inaccuracies regarding Israel, American Jews, and Christian supporters of Israel. By ignoring essential context and evidence, the publication strays from its stated mission to promote informed dialogue. A more balanced approach to these issues in future articles would be beneficial for achieving constructive discourse.