Questions for Discussion

 

These questions are laid out in an article on Antisemitism ................... 

1.  How have Jews been affected by antisemitism? What impact does antisemitism have on others?

For me, I feel terribly sad and angry. I am not Jewish but it seems that no-one can afford to dismiss it. The Nazi's used antisemitism to overrule educated democratic systems and create authoritarian government which dissolved into a focus on despair and death. As much as I am concerned for my Jewish friends I feel strongly that a society where hate is given as reason and the only way to "contribute" is to punish those who are blamed.

2. What is the meaning of “scapegoat”? What do people gain from scapegoating? If all the wrong is created by one animal. It's ridiculous of course, as though a goat has some magical power. However the focus is on blame because it never creates a healing example. Yes some people can be blamed for creating division but the work still has to be done by the people. Differences don't matter as much as effort. We are all in this together said Tommy Douglas even though some have insight and talent to fix problems, the first concern is that everyone is involved whether we love them or not. Love calls us to listen and speak to all. Now I know that isn't easy if they point a gun at you, and when we get to drawing a weapon the resolution is meaningless. The word "together" is broken when the gun is brought out.

Using the Scapegoat is a cop-out.

3. What is the effect of hateful images and speech? Do images and words reflect existing attitudes or create them? 

Hate leaves us powerless. It divides. It doesn't bring us together. We are fleshy emotional animals. Hate and blame positions us as innocent and angry. When what we need is patience and some trust.

4. How has antisemitism changed throughout history? What are some differences among religious, political, and racial antisemitism?

I am not a historian. This would best be answered by those who have studied history, sociology, psychology and economics. I am aware that scapegoating feels comfortable moving into the realm of magical thinking. But also the feeling that some sources have power over us is a rhetorical habit. Upper classes, magicians, money and power. To blame and not engage with people because they are ....... other is a cop out. I do work on "love" as a basis for relationship to others as a way to care and respect.

5, Why would political or religious leaders espouse antisemitic ideas?

It's a quick and easy way to spread hate and fear which gives power to a single group or individual and we can believe the problem will be solved. But the problem just becomes more difficult because of the pain and alienation it creates. 

6.  How is antisemitism similar to or different from other forms of group hatred? 

A woman is a woman no matter what she says, an African is black no matter what he believes, a Jew is a Jew no matter his religion, skills or beliefs. Its such a cheap and easy way to create division but it doesn't solve anything.

These events tell me that humanity is in need of loving kindness, a society that is liberal to the point we can say, read, learn and join groups that interest us and aspire to a powerful movement that enables us to learn more without feeling coerced or afraid of attack. We look for friendship and inspiration. But it is all of us who must engage in the quality of our society. 

Our society represents the effort we make to care for each other, to be moved to engage when we are insulted by injustice done to anyone. This is without using force money or influence to intimidate anyone.