What is antisemitism? Antisemitism explained in 60''
Antisemitism is a form of discrimination, or hostility directed at Jewish people.
‘Semites’ are by tradition the descendants of Shem, son of Noah. They include most of the peoples of the Middle East.
Nowadays, antisemitism is prejudice specifically towards Jews. However, in its earliest form, religious antisemitism reflected the intolerance of the Christians towards the Jews, based on their alleged complicity in the murder of Jesus.
Economic antisemitism appeared after the 13th century as Jews were mainly moneylenders and traders; of course, the fact that most countries refused Jews land owning is often omitted.
Racial antisemitism developed in the late 19th century due to the pseudoscience of racial eugenics, and condemned the Jewish peoples as evil.
Antisemitism is not just about individual hatred, but rather part of broader political movements, especially those associated with nationalism or authoritarianism.
It also plays a central role in fascist ideologies, as in Nazi Germany and it undermines democratic values and human rights.
References
Heywood A. 'Politics' 4th ed.
Krieger J. 'Political Science: The Oxford Companion to Politics of the World' (2001)
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