Answer 1 That would be a stereotype based on unrelated factors, exactly how the Jews were condemned by the Nazis. Answer 2 It's a widespread view, especially of the nor
…thern and eastern European Jews, and some Jews share it. Answer 3 Deuteronomy 4:5-8: "Behold, I (Moses) have taught you statutes and ordinances, as the Lord my God has commanded me, that you should observe them in the land which you are about to enter. Obey and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the eyes of the nations. When they hear all these statutes, they will say: "Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people." For what nation is there, that has God so near unto them, as the Lord our God is whenever we call out to Him? And what nation is there, that has statutes and ordinances so righteous as all this law (the Torah), which I set before you this day?" Our wisdom is that which God granted to us, because we learned His Torah, and in order that we may continue doing so. Answer 4 Jews do have an above average-rate of success in business, science, scholarship, technology, and industry. Some people think that this is the result of genetic selection, some claim that this is due to international cabals; but I find most convincing the argument that the Jewish culture created educated Jews. In this view, Judaism's stress in education and willingness to work hard has resulted in their incredible success. East Asians have similarly been hard workers who valued education and therefore have also acquired the stereotype of being clever. If Europeans en masse, Hispanics, Blacks, or Arabs shared this propensity to educate their children, expect the best from them, and have a strong work ethic, they would probably see marked improvement as well. ( Full Answer )