Fighting Antisemitism Today

In autumn 1962, Theodor W. Adorno delivered a lecture on fighting antisemitism to the German Coordinating Council of Societies for Christian-Jewish Cooperation. This lecture remains as topical and urgent today as it was in the 1960s.

After the Second World War, Germany grappled with a reluctance to admit collective guilt for the horrors of the Holocaust. German society was witnessing the emergence of various forms of hidden or ‘crypto’ antisemitism. In his lecture, Adorno demonstrated that antisemitism is a central and essential element of right-wing extremism and is identical in structure to racism. It is accompanied by an authoritarian mindset and a conformist anti-intellectualism.

Moreover, a classic trick used by anti-Semites is to protest against taboos which prevent them from freely spreading their hate by classing them as a form of persecution, presenting themselves as victims of it. The only antidote to this poison is an unwavering loyalty to the truth in dealing with historical and political realities.

Adorno advocates an anti-authoritarian programme to prevent antisemitic character development and advises taking firm action against outbreaks of antisemitic behaviour. His brilliant analysis of the sources and dangers of antisemitism is as relevant now as it was sixty years ago.

Fighting Antisemitism Today by Theodor W. Adorno is a compelling and insightful exploration of these enduring issues, underscoring the necessity of continuous vigilance and action.