Big Ideas
Sir Simon Schama — On antisemitism
Apr 24, 2025
Sir Simon Schama, a distinguished British historian and professor at Columbia University, delves into the long-standing issue of antisemitism, tracing its roots and modern implications. He humorously reflects on how Jewish people have historically served as societal scapegoats. Schama shares poignant insights about the Holocaust, emphasizing the delayed global response and the necessity for awareness. He advocates for storytelling as a means to bridge cultural divides and challenges prevailing narratives about Jewish identity and history in Israel.
49:51
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Quick takeaways
- Sir Simon Schama emphasizes the historical roots of antisemitism and its resurgence due to the mischaracterization of Zionism amidst current conflicts.
- He advocates for dialogue and collaboration between Jewish and Palestinian communities as essential steps toward coexistence and reconciliation.
Deep dives
Rising Anti-Semitism and Historical Context
Recent violent attacks on Jewish communities in Australia have surged in response to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, involving assaults on homes, schools, and places of worship. Notable historian Simon Sharma discusses the historical roots of anti-Semitism and its recent resurgence, highlighting the connection between current events and longstanding prejudices. He draws parallels between the past and present, particularly the impact of the Holocaust and the narrative of Jewish victimhood that continues to shape perceptions today. The alarming rise in anti-Semitic incidents, fueled by language surrounding the Israel-Palestine conflict, underscores the necessity of understanding historical contexts to address these issues appropriately.
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