Critical Theory and the Critique of Antisemitism

This volume provides the first in-depth examination of the Frankfurt School's theory of antisemitism and, employing this critical theory, investigates the presence of antisemitism in 20th- and 21st-century politics and society.

Critical Theory and the Critique of Antisemitism uncovers how critical theory differs from mainstream socialist or liberal critiques of antisemitism, as it frames its denunciation in the critique of other aspects of modern capitalist society, which traditional theories accept as given or assess in less detail. Amongst others, these include issues of identity, nation, race, and sexuality. In exploring the Frankfurt School's writing on antisemitism therefore, the chapters in this book reveal the connections to other pressing societal issues, such as racism more broadly, patriarchy, and trans rights.

Putting the theory to practice, this volume further brings together interdisciplinary scholars and activists, who employ critical theory to scrutinise right- and left-wing manifestations of antisemitism. Using case studies from National Socialism to Blair's New Labour and the 2005 French riots, they develop, in their critique of antisemitism, a critique of capitalism, as the authors ask: why does modern capitalist society seem bound to produce antisemitism? And how do we challenge it?

At a time when the rise of populism internationally has brought with it new strains of antisemitism, this is an essential resource that demonstrates not only the persistence of antisemitism today, but the continuing relevance of critical theory and the Frankfurt School.