Psychoanalysis and Anti-Semitism

A psychoanalytical perspective on anti-Semitism

The Frankfurt School concepts of the authoritarian personality and of Schuldabwehr (whereby postwar Germans developed resentment towards Jews precisely because of the crimes that were committed against them, which foisted a feeling of guilt upon them) have dominated the discourse on anti-Semitism in Germany for decades. But are they still helpful and, above all, are they still accurate? In her sensational Adorno lectures, Ilka Quindeau explains why, from a psychoanalytical perspective, this is not the case. Both of these explanatory models originating in the intellectual context of early critical theory serve to provide psychological relief, distracting us from our own involvement. To put it succinctly: anti-Semites are always the others.

Using focussed case studies from her clinical practice, Quindeau shows that this latent form of anti-Semitism – which is at odds with the conscious beliefs of the individual – is a culturally and transgenerationally transmitted expression of the unconscious. This is by no means tied to a specific personality type and is not, tellingly, fended off psychologically, but strategically. However, levelling the accusation of anti-Semitism is not an effective means of countering these patterns of thought, as Quindeau demonstrates using the example of the heated debates surrounding documenta fifteen and the Berlinale 2024. The goal of a productive critique of anti-Semitism can only be achieved through self-reflection. Only in this way, illustrates Quindeau, is solidarity and empathy with the suffering of others possible.

»The much-needed critique of antisemitism loses its effect when it takes the form of an accusation.«

»Ilka Quindeau’s book offers a comprehensive, well-argued critique of everyday antisemitism.« Stefan Müller-Doohm, Neue Zürcher Zeitung

»With this intelligent and highly readable book, Quindeau calls to mind the best traditions of the Frankfurt School, and highlights the laborious task of awareness raising, which goes hand in hand with any serious critique of antisemitism.« Jakob Hayner, WELT AM SONNTAG