Understanding the Emergence of Political Antisemitism

In this podcast episode, Roger Berkowitz discusses chapter two of Hannah Arendt's book, 'The Origins of Totalitarianism,' which focuses on the emergence of political antisemitism. Berkowitz explains that Arendt distinguishes between social and political antisemitism, and highlights the historical shift from ancient and medieval antisemitism to modern antisemitism. Arendt argues that modern antisemitism is an ideological movement that provides quasi-scientific arguments for blaming Jews for political and social problems. She further breaks down modern antisemitism into political and social dimensions, emphasizing the dangerous nature of political antisemitism, as it seeks to curtail the rights of Jews as citizens. Arendt suggests that the interaction between the rise and fall of the nation-state and the association of Jews with the state played a significant role in the emergence of political antisemitism. She explores the idea that social discrimination against Jews paved the way for political antisemitism and examines the shift from social to political discrimination. Arendt concludes that understanding this shift in antisemitism is crucial for comprehending its impact.