Judeopessimism: Antisemitism, History, and Critical Race Theory with Shaul Magid
Apr 14, 2023
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Shaul Magid, an expert in Jewish Studies and antisemitism research, discusses how to theorize antisemitism through engagement with theories of anti-Blackness, particularly Afropessimism. Topics include the history and perception of antisemitism, the intersection of antisemitism and critical race theory, comparing the Holocaust and the slave trade, exploring different perspectives on antisemitism, the implications of Jewish whiteness, the complex relationship between Zionism and antisemitism, and reflections on Black Lives Matter and landlessness.
Anti-Semitism has historically been viewed as an inevitable and necessary part of Jewish history.
Jewish conceptions of anti-Semitism have been shaped by theological teachings and historical perspectives.
Exploring critical race theory, specifically Afro-Pessimism, can provide new insights into Jewish perspectives on anti-Semitism.
Deep dives
Judeo-Pessimism and the Perception of Anti-Semitism
In this podcast episode, Professor Shawul Magid explores the concept of Judeo-Pessimism and its connection to the perception of anti-Semitism. He discusses how Jewish discussions about anti-Semitism have historically presumed its existence prior to its formal coining in the mid-19th century. Magid traces the theological roots of anti-Semitism in Jewish thought, emphasizing the notion that anti-Semitism has been viewed as an inevitable and even necessary part of Jewish history. He suggests that the Jewish discourse on anti-Semitism often combines historical and structural perspectives while also hinting at an ontological understanding of anti-Semitism as a perennial phenomena. By drawing comparisons to Afro-Pessimism and critical race theory, Magid proposes a potential framework for a critical Jewish theory that can examine and analyze the nature of Jewish discussions on anti-Semitism.
Historical Context and Jewish Perspectives on Anti-Semitism
Magid delves into the historical context of anti-Semitism and its implications for Jewish perspectives. He explores the idea that anti-Semitism emerged in response to Jews striving for integration into European societies during the modern era of emancipation. He references the views of Mayor Kahana, a Jewish Defense League founder, who considered anti-Semitism as an ingrained aspect of human civilization. Furthermore, Magid examines the use of theological teachings, such as the notion that anti-Semitism arose as a result of divine election, and the maxim 'Esau hates Jacob' in shaping Jewish conceptions of anti-Semitism. He suggests that these theological and historical perspectives persist in contemporary Jewish writings on the subject.
Critical Race Theory and Afro-Pessimism in Jewish Studies
Magid argues for the exploration of critical race theory, particularly Afro-Pessimism, as a productive framework for the study of anti-Semitism in Jewish studies. He highlights the theoretical sophistication in discussions of anti-blackness within critical race theory and their potential implications for developing a critical Jewish theory of anti-Semitism. Drawing parallels between anti-blackness and anti-Semitism, Magid considers the theoretical tools offered by Afro-Pessimism in understanding the Jewish discourse on anti-Semitism. He suggests that engaging with critical race theory can provide new insights into the ways Jewish perspectives on anti-Semitism are shaped and the challenges of simultaneously viewing anti-Semitism as a historical phenomenon and an ahistorical, even ontological, principle.
Afro-Pessimism and its Ontological Claim
Afro-Pessimism reveals an anti-black antagonism in the modern world, positioning blackness as synonymous with slaveness. According to Afro-Pessimism, blackness is social death, and there was never a moment of social life or equilibrium. Blackness is not separable from slaveness, and it is considered a structural component of social life rather than a historical phenomenon. This view sees black people as structurally inert props that exist for the fulfillment of white and non-black fantasies.
Judeo-Pessimism in Historical Context
Judeo-Pessimism, on the other hand, is a right-wing phenomenon that focuses on internal divisions within the Jewish community and provides an excuse for Jews to hate other Jews. It is not so much about fearing the hatred of others, but rather about animosity towards Jews who hold different political views. This sentiment is often weaponized to support political and military power, leading to a mindset of domination and a disregard for solutions or peaceful coexistence.
Black Studies and Critical Race Theory constitute some of the most theoretically sophisticated conversations in the Humanities today on issues of individual and collective identities. The results have not yet been brought to bear on Jewish Studies, in general, or research on antisemitism, in particular. This talk, delivered by Shaul Magid and part of the Albert & Vera List Fund for Jewish Studies Lecture Series at the Center for the Study of World Religions, makes the case that antisemitism can be better theorized through engagement with theories of anti-Blackness, particularly Afropessimism. It focuses on how Jews write about antisemitism, how it is perceived in contemporary America, and how this discussion relates to race and Jewish identity.
This event took place on April 3, 2023
Learn more: https://cswr.hds.harvard.edu/
Full transcript: https://cswr.hds.harvard.edu/news/2023/4/18/video-judeopessimism-antisemitism-history-and-critical-race-theory-shaul-magid
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