Sad but true... the ignorance is cultivated and maintained. Anybody who is awake and lives in the US can attest to that. It's embarrassing. In the past, I never understood why the US continues to be bedfellows with Israel. I don't think it's just the Jewish vote. (Although that's why no presidential candidate mentions Palestinian rights during the campaign). Once anyone gets into office (especially for a second term) they could apply hella pressure on Israel. But no.... Why not? As Linda McQuaig wrote, "It's the crude, dude." A militarily secure Israel protects Big Oil interests. Americans are not only ignorant, but addicted to oil. A very dangerous combination, as we have all seen.