Evaluation of Jewish Population Estimates

Publication Date: January 1969

Publisher: American Jewish Committee

Author(s): Uziel Schmelz

Research Area: Culture and religion; Population and demographics

Keywords: Jewish Identification; Demography; Census; Methodology

Type: Report

Abstract:

The author evaluates the population estimates published annually in the American Jewish Year Book (AJYB). He states that these estimates are crucial for the efficient running and planning of communal administration and services. In his evaluation, the author emphasizes the broad aspects viewed on a global scale. In order to substantiate certain points in the evaluation, it is preceded by a short account of population dynamics among the Jews. He then considers a number of problems concerning the quality of available estimates. Finally, he reviews the objective difficulties and offers some constructive suggestions.

In American Jewish Yearbook 1969, pp. 273-288.