Entrepreneur and scholar Professor Scott Galloway discusses the rise of anti-Semitism and bigotry against Israel, the changing perceptions of Israel in the US, and the challenges of shaping public opinion. The conversation also delves into the differences in European and American attitudes on global issues, the impact of TikTok, and the need for a radical shift in diversity programs in universities to enhance representation.
Perception of Israel has shifted globally, impacting generational divides in support.
Identity politics fuels search for 'fake racists' and anti-Semitism concerns post-conflict.
Balancing Israel's brand perception with reality of actions poses ethical challenges.
Deep dives
The Perception of Israel in the West
Western perception of Israel has shifted from a positive view to one where Israel is seen as the Goliath rather than the David. The changing perception is attributed to factors like the dismantling of democratic foundations, accusations of corruption, and portrayals of unethical behavior. Globally, Israel's image has transformed over the years, impacting generational divides in support for the country.
Influence of Identity Politics and Social Media
The rise of identity politics has led to a focus on past injustices, fueling a search for 'fake racists' and selective targeting of oppressors based on race and wealth. Social media platforms like TikTok are seen as influential tools in shaping public opinion, potentially being used to divide communities internally. The speaker suggests that external forces may manipulate social media to influence perception on global conflicts.
Challenges Faced by Jewish-Americans
The escalation of anti-Semitism post-conflict has emerged as a significant concern, impacting individuals like the speaker in various ways. Business losses, professional opportunities, and even personal safety have been affected. The reluctance of influential figures, including CEOs and celebrities, to speak out due to fear of backlash or controversy reflects the complexities faced by Jewish-Americans in the current climate.
Debate on Israel's Standing and Actions
The discussion delves into the complexities of portraying Israel's response to conflicts, highlighting the challenge of balancing brand perception against the reality of actions taken. The comparison of Israel's military strategies to historical wartime measures underscores the ethical dilemmas surrounding war tactics. The narrative surrounding Israel's actions and the resulting global perception are subjects of intense debate and scrutiny.
Political Landscape and Future Outlook
The evolving political landscape, influenced by generational shifts, social media manipulation, and geopolitical conflicts, raises concerns about future support for Israel. The speaker reflects on the potential impact of these factors on the 2024 election and the broader geopolitical scenario. The complexities of navigating personal beliefs, economic interests, and political stances in a polarized environment underscore the challenges faced by individuals like him.
During the Passover break, another chance to hear one of our most forceful conversations - one that, in many ways, has only become more timely. Yonit and Jonathan talk to the entrepreneur, scholar and podcaster Professor Scott Galloway about the war that is waged not through bombs and rockets, but in the media, online - and especially on campus.