Rabbi David Wolpe, a Harvard Divinity School visiting scholar and former rabbi at Sinai Temple, discusses the complex landscape of antisemitism today. He examines the fallout from the October 7th events and how Israeli and diaspora Jews perceive each other. The conversation touches on the roots of antisemitism, the impact of conspiracy theories like Great Replacement Theory, and the varying responses from political factions. Wolpe also critiques the role of academic institutions in addressing these issues and the implications for civil discourse.
Populist figures on the right, like Tucker Carlson and Elon Musk, may unintentionally contribute to the normalization of anti-Semitism by their rhetoric and associations, emboldening anti-Semitic sentiments among their followers.
Anti-Semitism on the far left arises from a skewed perception of power dynamics and an obsession with an oppressor and oppressed narrative, with Jews being subjected to invidious comparisons due to their success, leading to a heightened danger when combining with explicit celebrations of violence against Jews.
Deep dives
The Rise of Anti-Semitism on the Right
There is a concerning populist moment on the right that is becoming infected by anti-Semitism, with figures like Tucker Carlson and Elon Musk seemingly playing well with each other. While these figures may not explicitly be anti-Semitic themselves, their rhetoric and associations can encourage and embolden anti-Semitic sentiments among their followers. The far right often relies on conspiracy theories and sees Jews as the orchestrators of societal changes they fear, such as demographic shifts. This anti-Semitism often takes the form of winking and nodding, allowing these figures to gain support while maintaining plausible deniability. It is important to note that these figures have significant cultural influence and can unintentionally contribute to the normalization of anti-Semitism.
The Problem of Anti-Semitism on the Left
On the far left, anti-Semitism often arises from a skewed perception of power dynamics and an obsession with an oppressor and oppressed narrative. Jews are often viewed as privileged and are subjected to invidious comparisons, particularly due to their success in various fields. There is an underlying belief that Jews are the model minority, reinforcing divisions between minority groups. While this form of anti-Semitism has traditionally not been perceived as a direct threat, it has become concerning following the global response to recent events. The alliance between anti-Semitic sentiments on the far left and those explicitly celebrating violence against Jews demonstrates a heightened danger that was previously underestimated.
October 7th and the Global Response
The atrocities of October 7th have had a profound impact on both Israeli and diaspora Jews, creating a sense of unity and solidarity. Prior to this event, the relationship between Israeli and diaspora Jews has often been distant, with Israeli Jews feeling disconnected from their diaspora counterparts. However, October 7th changed this dynamic, emphasizing the interconnectedness of Jews worldwide. It compelled diaspora Jews to take a position and recognize their involvement in the situation, while also making Israeli Jews acknowledge the significance of support and discussions from diaspora communities. This event has reshaped the perception of their relationship and highlighted mutual importance.
Historical Significance of Anti-Semitism
Anti-Semitism has a long and complex history, stemming from religious and social factors. The rejection of Jesus as the Messiah by Jews fueled early Christian anti-Semitism, leading to a mix of theological and social resentment. Jews being seen as the other in various societies also played a significant role in their persecution throughout history. The hatred of Jews has often taken the form of conspiracy theories, with Jews being scapegoated as orchestrators of global events or holders of excessive power. This perception has persisted, adapting to different contexts and political ideologies over time. Anti-Semitism remains a dangerous and protean form of hatred that is deeply ingrained in societies.
Sam Harris speaks with Rabbi David Wolpe about the global response to the atrocities of October 7th, 2023. They discuss the difference between Israeli and diaspora Jews, the history and logic of antisemitism, the role of conspiracy theories, Great Replacement Theory, reasons for Jewish success, right-wing antisemitism, left-wing antisemitism, the response of Harvard to October 7th, the college presidents’ testimony before Congress, the future of DEI and civil discourse, the BDS movement, antisemitism vs anti-Zionism, Jewish acceptance at Ivy League universities, the antisemitism endemic to Islam, foreign funding of US universities, and other topics.
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