A Mandatory Listen - Sir Simon Schama: A howl against rising global antisemitism
Summary
Sir Simon Shama discusses his new essay on the resurgence of anti-Semitism, attributing the current wave to a "poisoning" of modern society rather than historical continuity. He contrasts the volume of contemporary hatred with past persecution and argues that the solution lies in educating the non-Jewish world about the richness of Jewish history, not just its tragedies. Shama also addresses the rise of anti-Zionist Jewish movements and the need for open debate to counteract extremist narratives.
Topics discussed
Introduction and revisiting college days
Sponsor segments: JCF and Technion
Welcome and introduction of Sir Simon Shama
The impetus for writing the essay on anti-Semitism
Personal memories of Jewish life in London
Debating the causes and history of anti-Semitism
The future of combating anti-Semitism
Education, outreach, and the Tell foundation
Jewish identity, philo-Semitism, and historical affinity
The Holocaust, memorials, and Jewish history museums
Sponsor segments: Birthright and Times of Israel
Rising interest in conversion and Jewish love
Political backlash and the Green Party resolution
Campus experiences and the anti-Zionist Jewish movement
Internal Jewish schisms and anti-Zionist institutions
Internal debate, truth, and closing remarks
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