Fink like the Fink

Last week I went to hear Daniel Finkelstein, chief leader writer of The Times, speak at an UJIA event. I knew that the evening’s discussion was going to centre on Israel – but I was pleasantly surprised when it turned into a masterclass on how to communicate effectively about its political landscape– as opposed to a history lesson.

All too many times, while sitting in a pub, I have wandered into what start as relaxed “chats” about Israel and felt my sanity slip away as I struggle to effectively put the Israeli side across.

I think the Fink Tank has got it right. Most people don’t think that the state of Israel shouldn’t exist and if you stick to the more macro arguments, a far better conversation will ensue. The minute the chat turns to which side of the school fence the bomb landed in, you can forget it.

Reminding people why the need for a state of Israel very much still exists is the way to go.

Also lambasting the BBC for being biased against the Israeli case, will only encourage people to think the views that you don’t want to promote, are the norm. Just name and shame the individual cases of bias. Don’t tar Aunty with one brush – especially with decisions like these coming to the fore.