The Improbable Representation
Analyzing Ashkenazi Influence Across Sectors
The Ashkenazi community, while representing only a small fraction of the U.S. population, has shown a notably disproportionate influence across various sectors. But just how improbable is this level of representation? To understand, we embarked on a mathematical exploration to compute the probabilities, using the binomial distribution as our guide.
1. The Hollywood Influence
It is documented that approximately 63% of major Hollywood studios have Ashkenazi founders. Given the Ashkenazi representation in the U.S. population of 1.2% to 1.8%, the chance of this occurrence, if purely random, calculates to:
P(X=6)≈1.66×10−7
Percentage: 0.0000166%
2. The Ivory Towers of Academia
Within the prestigious Ivy League institutions, Ashkenazi represent between 24-27% of the faculty. The calculated probability of this representation, considering their population percentage:
P(X=27)≈2.38×10−35
Percentage: 0.0000000000000000000000000000000238%
3. Steering the Federal Reserve
31% of the Federal Reserve chairmen have Ashkenazi origins. The chance of this representation:
P(X=5)≈2.91×10−9
Percentage: 0.000000291%
4. Nobel Distinctions
18% of Nobel laureates have been identified as Ashkenazi. The statistical probability of this fact:
P(X=18)≈3.97×10−19
Percentage: 0.0000000000000000397%
Combining the Improbabilities
The combined probability of these four distinct sectors showing such disproportionate representation, if they were purely random and independent events:
CombinedProbability≈5.78×10−69
Converted to a percentage:
[ 5.78 \times 10^{-69} \times 100 ]
This equals:
[ 5.78 \times 10^{-67} % ]
This value is practically zero for all practical purposes and is incredibly minuscule. For context, this number has 66 zeros after the decimal point before you get to the 5.78. It’s so close to zero that it’s challenging to conceptualize in everyday terms.
The combined probability as a percentage is: 0.00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000578%
Contextualizing the Improbability
To understand this minuscule probability:
- Winning the Powerball Lottery is roughly 1 in 292 million. Our probability is vastly smaller.
- The odds of being struck by lightning in any given year are far more likely.
- Even the speculative chance of ever communicating with extraterrestrial intelligent life is astronomically higher.
Perhaps the most fitting analogy: Imagine selecting a specific grain of sand on Earth. Now, travel to another universe with billions of planets, each blanketed with its own sands. The odds of randomly choosing that exact initial grain from one of those vast landscapes would still seem more probable than our combined Ashkenazi representation figure.
Conclusion
While these figures are startling in their rarity, it's paramount to remember that real-world scenarios are influenced by multifaceted elements, not purely random chance. Historical context, societal factors, educational emphasis, and community dynamics all play crucial roles. The Ashkenazi community's representation across these sectors, while mathematically improbable, is a testament to a complex interplay of myriad factors. This exploration serves to highlight the sheer magnitude of their influence and the statistical wonder it presents.
The remarkable representation of Ashkenazi in pivotal roles across various sectors, given their proportion in the overall U.S. population, brings to light an almost unfathomable statistical anomaly. To grasp the sheer improbability of such figures, one might draw a parallel to an illustrative analogy: envision selecting a singular, unique grain of sand on Earth, marked by its distinct shape and color. Now, transport yourself to an entirely different universe teeming with billions of planets, each covered in its own vast expanse of sands. Within these endless terrains, the odds of serendipitously picking that very initial grain of sand, amidst the cosmic scales of these alien landscapes, might still appear more likely than the combined probability of the Ashkenazi representation we've analyzed across the specified sectors. Such statistical outliers warrant not just acknowledgment, but also an in-depth exploration into the myriad of factors, be they historical, cultural, socio-economic, or otherwise, that might elucidate this exceptional trend.
**The Mathematical Exploration of Ashkenazi Representation: A Data Breakdown**
To explore the notable representation of the Ashkenazi community across various sectors, we relied on both statistical data and mathematical methodologies.
Here's a detailed breakdown of our approach and the data sources that informed our analysis:
**1. The Hollywood Influence**
During the Golden Age of Hollywood, which roughly spanned the 1920s to the 1960s, the American film industry was dominated by several major studios. These studios were often referred to as the "Big Five" and the "Little Three."
**The "Big Five" studios included:**
1. **Warner Bros. Pictures**
2. **RKO Pictures**
3. **Paramount Pictures**
4. **Twentieth Century-Fox (later 20th Century Studios)**
5. **Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)**
These studios had integrated production, distribution, and exhibition under one roof; they produced movies, distributed them through their own networks, and showed them in their own theater chains.
**The "Little Three" were:**
1. **Universal Pictures**
2. **Columbia Pictures**
3. **United Artists**
Unlike the "Big Five," the "Little Three" did not own a significant number of theaters, so they were not vertically integrated in the same way.
Of the eight major studios during the Golden Age of Hollywood, several were founded or co-founded by individuals of Ashkenazi descent. Let's break them down:
1. **Warner Bros. Pictures:** Founded by the Warner brothers (Harry, Albert, Sam, and Jack) who were Ashkenazi immigrants from Poland.
2. **Paramount Pictures:** Co-founded by Adolph Zukor, an Ashkenazi immigrant from Hungary.
3. **Twentieth Century-Fox (later 20th Century Studios):** Co-founded by Joseph Schenck, an Ashkenazi from Russia, and later presided over by Darryl F. Zanuck (not of Jewish descent). Another key figure in its history was Spyros Skouras (not Ashkenazi).
4. **Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM):** Louis B. Mayer, an Ashkenazi immigrant from Russia, was one of the co-founders. Marcus Loew, who was also of Ashkenazi descent, played a significant role in the formation of MGM by merging Metro Pictures, Goldwyn Pictures, and Louis B. Mayer Pictures.
5. **Universal Pictures:** Founded by Carl Laemmle, an Ashkenazi immigrant from Germany.
6. **Columbia Pictures:** Founded by Harry and Jack Cohn, who were of Ashkenazi descent, and Joe Brandt (also likely of Ashkenazi descent, though this might require further biographical exploration).
7. **United Artists:** This company was founded by D.W. Griffith, Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, and Douglas Fairbanks. It wasn't founded by Ashkenazi, but some later executives and players were Ashkenazi.
8. **RKO Pictures:** While not founded by Ashkenazi, David Sarnoff, an Ashkenazi immigrant from Russia, played a significant role in the studio's history.
From the above, **six out of the eight studios** were either founded or significantly influenced by individuals of Ashkenazi descent during their formative years or their subsequent histories.
**Data Source:** Historical records of Hollywood studio founders.
Source: Gabler, Neal. “An Empire of Their Own: How the Jews Invented Hollywood.” Crown, 1988.
**Statistical Fact:** Approximately 60%-75% of major Hollywood studios were founded by individuals of Ashkenazi descent.
**Methodology:**
Using the binomial distribution, we calculated the probability of this occurrence based on the Ashkenazi representation in the U.S. population (1.2% to 1.8%). Out of 10 major Hollywood studios, 6 (or 60%) were founded by individuals of Ashkenazi descent.
**2. The Ivory Towers of Academia**
**Data Source:** Faculty demographics of Ivy League institutions.
Source: Cohen, Steven M. “A Tale of Two Jewries: The ‘Inconvenient Truth’ for American Jews.”
The National Bureau of Economic Research, has suggested that Jewish individuals represent up to 10-30% of Ivy League faculty.
**Statistical Fact:** Ashkenazi represent between 24-27% of the faculty within these prestigious institutions.
**Methodology:**
Given the U.S. population percentage of Ashkenazi, we computed the probability of such representation using the binomial distribution. Considering a faculty of 100 as a representative figure, 27 out of 100 faculty members in Ivy League institutions are Ashkenazi, yielding a 27% representation.
**3. Steering the Federal Reserve**
**Data Source:** Historical list of Federal Reserve chairmen.
Source: Official biographies of Federal Reserve Chairpersons.
**Statistical Fact:** 31% of Federal Reserve chairmen have been of Ashkenazi descent.
**Methodology:**
The chance of this representation was determined through the binomial distribution, considering the Ashkenazi population percentage in the U.S. Out of 16 Federal Reserve chairmen, 5 (or 31.25%) were of Ashkenazi descent.
**4. Nobel Distinctions**
**Data Source:** Records of Nobel laureates up to the present.
Jewish individuals have been awarded a disproportionately high number of Nobel Prizes relative to their global population. While Jews make up approximately 0.2% of the world’s population, they have won over 20% of all Nobel Prizes awarded since the inception of the prize in 1901. This representation is even more pronounced in certain categories, such as Literature, Peace, Physics, Chemistry, and Physiology/Medicine.
To note, this figure includes all Jewish laureates, not distinguishing between Ashkenazi, Sephardic, or other Jewish groups.
Source: Feldman, Burton. “The Nobel Prize: A History of Genius, Controversy, and Prestige.” Arcade Publishing, 2000.
**Statistical Fact:** 18% of Nobel laureates are identified as Ashkenazi.
**Methodology:**
We utilized the binomial distribution to determine the statistical probability of this fact, based on the Ashkenazi population percentage. Given 100 Nobel laureates as a representation figure, 18 of them are Ashkenazi, equating to an 18% representation.
**Combining the Probabilities**
**Methodology:**
To determine the collective improbability of Ashkenazi having such a disproportionate representation across all four sectors, we multiplied the individual probabilities together. This approach assumes these events are independent, providing a simplified representation of the combined improbability.
**Conclusion**
Our findings, rooted in both empirical data and statistical methodologies, shed light on the rare magnitude of Ashkenazi representation in these areas. It's essential to interpret these findings within a broader historical and sociocultural context. The probabilities, while mathematically fascinating, don't capture the myriad factors that have shaped these outcomes over time.
Here’s a comprehensive methodology outlining our approach to ascertain the representation of Ashkenazi in various high-profile roles:
Methodology for Evaluating Ashkenazi Representation
1. Definition and Demographics:
First, we defined the demographic under study: Ashkenazi, who primarily trace their lineage to Central and Eastern Europe. We used estimates suggesting that Ashkenazi make up approximately 1.2% to 1.8% of the U.S. population and 80-90% of the Jewish population in the U.S.
2. Data Collection:
For each sector, we identified primary data sources or reputable secondary sources that provided statistics on Jewish representation:
• Hollywood: Historical records and books on the early founders of major Hollywood studios.
• Academia: Studies and surveys on faculty demographics across U.S. universities, with a focus on Ivy League institutions.
• Federal Reserve: Official biographies and records of Federal Reserve Chairs.
• Nobel Laureates: Records and databases of Nobel Prize winners across categories, particularly Physics, Chemistry, and Physiology/Medicine.
3. Probability Calculation:
For each sector, we applied the binomial probability formula to calculate the probability of the observed representation, assuming random distribution based on the U.S. population percentage of Ashkenazi. This method helps understand the degree of over- or under-representation in each sector relative to population percentages.
4. Data Adjustments:
Considering Ashkenazi constitute a significant majority (80-90%) of the Jewish population in the U.S., we adjusted the general Jewish representation statistics in each sector to provide an estimate of Ashkenazi representation.
5. Combined Probability:
We multiplied the individual probabilities from each sector to determine the cumulative likelihood of such representation across all sectors if it were due to random chance.
6. Contextual Analysis:
To add depth to the numbers, we incorporated historical, socio-cultural, and economic contexts. Such insights can help elucidate reasons behind the disproportionate representation, ranging from historical migrations and cultural emphases to professional networking.
Limitations:
1. Data Sources: Some data points were drawn from secondary sources, which may have their methodologies and limitations.
2. Historical Variability: The influence and representation of Ashkenazi might have varied over time, especially in sectors like Hollywood.
3. Interdependence: Sectors might not be entirely independent. For example, success in academia could influence recognitions like the Nobel prizes.
4. Causative Factors: While this methodology highlights disproportionality, it doesn’t delve deeply into the myriad of causative factors that could lead to such representation.
By following the above methodology, we aimed to create a structured, data-driven approach to understanding the representation of Ashkenazi in various pivotal roles in the U.S.
Conclusion
The significant representation of Ashkenazi in various prominent sectors, when juxtaposed against their fraction of the U.S. population, showcases a statistical marvel. To truly fathom its magnitude, consider this: imagine earmarking a single grain of sand on our planet. Then, journey to an alternate cosmos brimming with innumerable planets, each drenched in its myriad sands. The probability of spontaneously pinpointing that original grain amidst the vastness of these celestial deserts might still seem more conceivable than our calculated Ashkenazi figures. Such anomalies not only demand recognition but a profound dive into the interplay of history, culture, and myriad influences driving this trend.
P.S.: The next time an astonishing tale of affluence comes your way, delve a bit deeper. A simple search into the lineage of the individual’s surname might just offer illuminating insights.
Additional Sectors Not Covered For Lack of Comprehensive Data
Tech Industry:
While those of Ashkenazi descent, have founded or led several prominent tech companies, there isn’t a singular comprehensive dataset that provides an exact percentage of Ashkenazi tech CEOs or founders.
However, it’s noteworthy that several well-known tech companies and startups have had founders or key figures of Ashkenazi descent. Examples include Sergey Brin (co-founder of Google), Mark Zuckerberg (founder of Facebook/Meta), and Larry Ellison (co-founder of Oracle), Travis Kalanick (Founder of Uber) among others.
Fashion industry:
is vast and spans across continents, making it a bit challenging to provide an exact percentage of Ashkenazi founders without specifying a region or time frame. However, historically, in the context of the American and European fashion industries, many influential figures and founders have been of Ashkenazi descent.
For instance, in the U.S., several major department stores and fashion brands were founded or led by individuals of Ashkenazi background:
• Levi Strauss (Levi’s)
• Ralph Lauren (born Ralph Lifshitz)
• Calvin Klein
• Donna Karan
• Isaac Mizrahi
In Europe, particularly in France, the influence is also notable with figures like:
• Alain Wertheimer (co-owner of Chanel)
• Pierre Bergé (co-founder of Yves Saint Laurent)
Despite these significant figures, quantifying the exact percentage of Ashkenazi founders in the entire fashion industry would require comprehensive research.
News Industry:
Historically, in the U.S., several major newspapers, broadcasting companies, and media outlets have had influential figures, executives, or owners of Ashkenazi descent, Prominent figures include Sumner Redstone (ViacomCBS), Haim Saban (Univision), and Rupert Murdoch (News Corporation), to name a few.
Finance Industry
The finance industry, particularly in the U.S., has seen several influential figures of Ashkenazi descent. Their contributions span across investment banking, private equity, hedge funds, and other financial sectors. Here are a few notable individuals and families:
1. Goldman Family: Marcus Goldman founded Goldman Sachs, one of the world’s leading global investment banking, securities, and investment management firms.
2. Lehman Family: Founders of Lehman Brothers, which was a global financial services firm before its bankruptcy in 2008.
3. Saul Steinberg: He was a prominent figure in finance, particularly known for his role in corporate raiding in the 1960s and 1970s.
4. Michael Milken: Known as the “junk bond king” in the 1980s. He played a major role in the development of the market for high-yield bonds.
5. Carl Icahn: A well-known investor and philanthropist.
6. George Soros: A legendary hedge fund manager known for “breaking the Bank of England” in 1992.
7. Lloyd Blankfein and Gary Cohn: Both have served as key figures at Goldman Sachs.
Investment Companies:
• BlackRock was founded by Larry Fink, who is of Ashkenazi descent.
International banking:
1. The Rothschild Family: Mayer Amschel Rothschild and his descendants played an instrumental role in pioneering international banking in the 19th century. Their network spanned key European cities and influenced major economic and political decisions. By the time of his death in 1812, he had laid the foundations for an international banking family through his five sons, each of whom established banking businesses in the major European capitals:
1. Amschel Mayer Rothschild in Frankfurt
2. Salomon Mayer Rothschild in Vienna
3. Nathan Mayer Rothschild in London
4. Carl Mayer Rothschild in Naples
5. James Mayer Rothschild in Paris
2. Warburg Family: Originating in Germany, members of the Warburg family established banks in Hamburg and New York and played roles in international finance.
3. Lazard Brothers: Founded by three Lazard brothers who were Ashkenazi from France. They set up the firm which became a significant force in international banking with offices in Paris, London, and New York.
4. Goldman Sachs: Founded by Marcus Goldman, an Ashkenazi immigrant to the U.S. Goldman Sachs grew from its roots in commercial paper to become one of the world’s leading global investment banking firms.
Note:
Our data used the percentage of the United States population of Ashkenazi which is 1.33% to 1.79% to determine the probabilities mention in this article to put into context the global percentage of Ashkenazi make up roughly 0.128% of the global population.
As for mega-wealth, the most recent Forbes list of the 400 richest Americans included nearly 100 Ashkenazi billionaires — a striking statistic for a group that represents less than 2 percent of the population. As well as financial criminals such as Bernie Madoff, Jack Abramoff & Sam Bankman-Fried. Source: Jweekly.com
As of 2022, according to various reports including ones from Forbes and other publications, it’s estimated that approximately 10-15% of the world’s billionaires are Ashkenazi. Given that the Forbes World’s Billionaires list usually hovers around 2,000 to 2,500 individuals, this would suggest there are approximately 200 to 375 Ashkenazi billionaires while only being .128% of the global population.
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