Hidden psychology of Antisemitism – Philosophical & Talmudic Analysis, Dr. Olga Kirschbaum-Shirazki

Today Dr. Olga Kirschbaum-Shirazki joins us to analyzes the hidden psychological mechanisms underlying antisemitism, such as projection, jealousy, and a desire to feel morally superior to Jews. She explains how antisemitism has evolved over time, and how we can understand and counter it today. We explore the complex academic theories behind antisemitism, focusing on both historical, philosophical, and Talmudic perspectives. Also, we examine the intricate connections between antisemitism, culture, philosophy, and social structures, and discuss how both historical and modern perspectives can help us understand and confront hatred and prejudice in contemporary society. We talk about the influence of prominent philosophers like Hannah Arendt and Frankfurt School theorists on understanding antisemitism. And also psychological mechanisms, such as projections, authoritarian personalities linked to antisemitic tendencies, and how antisemitism manifests as projection, social frustration, and moral critique. What can the Torah and philosophers teach us about how to combat antisemitism? And what kind of people are resilient and resistant against antisemitism? And why? About Dr. Kirschbaum-Shirazki: Dr. Olga Kirschbaum-Shirazki is a historian specializing in modern European history. She grew up in Toronto, holds an MA in Medieval Studies from the University of Toronto, and earned her PhD in Modern European History from New York University. She is the co-founder and editor of the Tel Aviv Review of Books, where she brings together a wide spectrum of voices on Israeli culture, religion, and politics. She also serves as a visiting fellow at the Tel Aviv Institute. As a researcher, educator, and translator, Olga works at the intersection of Jewish history, interreligious relations, nationalism, and the challenges of tradition and modernity. Her writing is known for cutting through ideological noise and offering clear, historically grounded perspectives on Zionism, the Middle East, and contemporary political debates. Also joining us is my co host, Dr. Leif Knutsen. Leif is an economist and philologist with a background as a consultant and advisor, and holds a doctorate in engineering science. Leif has been published in both Norwegian and international media, including in The Times of Israel, where he is described as follows: «Leif Knutsen has observed, reflected, and written on Israeli and Jewish issues since the late 70's and has personal experience from Jewish life in the US and Norway.» Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the psychological appeal of antisemitism 01:21 How antisemitism has developed in Europe 04:57 Main theories of antisemitism after World War II 08:47 Religious and biblical perspectives on antisemitism 15:22 Historical and cultural factors in antisemitism 22:52 Modern antisemitism and anti-Zionism 30:53 The relationship between Jewish culture and antisemitic narratives 40:48 Theological and metaphysical aspects of antisemitism 50:20 How to counter antisemitism today 57:37 Moral and psychological aspects of antisemitism 58:32 Philosophical perspectives on responsibility and morality 01:00:19 Cultural symbols and architecture in the Christmas narrative 01:02:26 The Torah 01:05:25 Civilizations’ self-perception and images of the “other” 01:11:56 Antisemitism as symptom and mechanism 01:19:19 Rationality and irrationality in antisemitic attitudes 01:26:15 Unconscious psychological mechanisms and antisemitism 01:36:29 Cultural symbols and Israel as a proxy 01:42:21 Closing and summary of key points *** ► New book out now (in Norwegian): Frykt og Stillhet - jødiske stemmer i Norge etter 7. oktober. Bestill her: https://bok.norli.no/frykt-og-stillhet ► SUPPORT HENRIK BECKHEIM PODCAST Become a member of my Youtube channel to support the podcast. ► You can donate here: https://henrikbeckheim.com/support-us ► Advertise on The Henrik Beckheim Podcast [email protected] ► OFFICIAL MERCH HERE - https://henrikbeckheim.com/store ►Review/Rating: Please feel free to leave a review, and make sure to hit the subscribe button. ► Channels: • Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/henrikbeckheim • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast... • Google Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/google-henrik-bec... • Website: https://henrikbeckheim.com ► Sosial media: • Facebook:   / henrikbeckheimpodcast   • Instagram:   / henrik.beckheim   • TikTok:   / henrikbeckheim.podcast