The Nazification of the Postmodernist Left

Shalom Lappin is the author of The New Antisemitism: The Resurgence of an Ancient Hatred in the Modern World (Polity) which won the 2024 LCSCA Book Prize Since the Hamas terrorist attack of 7 October 2023, Diaspora Jews have found themselves under sustained a…
Ernie Stanton · 6 days ago · 2 minutes read

The Nazification of the Postmodernist Left

The Old and the New Lefts

In the 20th century, the traditional left focused on class struggle and worker liberation. As time passed, the radical left shifted its attention to anti-colonialism and the rights of marginalized groups.

The Left and the Jews: A Brief History of Unrequited Love

Despite their support for anti-fascism, the left has often been hostile to Jews. They viewed Jews as capitalists and class enemies, and dismissed their concerns about antisemitism as a distraction from the broader social revolution.

The Failure of Secular Nationalism and the Rise of Islamism

The failure of secular Arab nationalism in the 1960s led to the rise of Islamist groups. These groups identified the West, including Israel, as a threat to Muslim societies and adopted antisemitic rhetoric.

An Identity Politics that Targets Jews

Postmodernist leftism has shifted its focus from class to identity politics, emphasizing the grievances of marginalized groups. However, this shift has led to a hierarchy of victimhood that includes Jews, who are now seen as privileged oppressors.

Contemporary Antisemitism: Continuities and Innovations

Contemporary antisemitism disguises itself as anti-Zionism but targets Jewish people as a whole. It seeks to annihilate Israel and marginalize Jews globally, echoing tactics used against Jews in Nazi Germany.

The Move to the Far Right: Broken Reeds and False Friends

Fear of Islamism has led many to support the far right, which is also characterized by antisemitism. While these regimes may oppose Islamist extremism, they are hostile to Jews and cannot be relied upon for support.

Israel's Achievements Despite Its Government

Despite domestic instability, Israel has achieved significant military victories and weakened Iranian influence in the Middle East.

To whom does the Diaspora turn?

Diaspora Jews are facing rising antisemitism but traditional civil authorities are unable or unwilling to protect them. They must consider new strategies for survival.