The Definition of Anti-Semitism

by Kenneth L. Marcus

What is anti-Semitism? The Definition of Anti-Semitism is the first book-length study to explore this central question in the context of the new anti-Semitism. Previous efforts to define 'anti-Semitism' have been complicated by the disreputable origins of the term, the discredited sources of its etymology, the diverse manifestations of the concept, and the contested politics of its applications. Nevertheless the task is an important one, not only because definitional clarity is required for the term to be understood, but also because the current conceptual confusion prevents resolution of many incidents in which anti-Semitism is manifested. The Definition of Anti-Semitism explores the various ways in which anti-Semitism has historically been defined, demonstrates the weaknesses in prior efforts, and develops a new definition of anti-Semitism, especially in the context of the 'new anti-Semitism' in American higher education.

Genres: Antisemitism

292 pages, Hardcover

First published June 12, 2015

About the author

Kenneth L. Marcus, J.D. (University of California, Berkeley, School of Law, Boalt Hall, 1991; B.A., Williams College, 1988) is senior research associate at the Institute for Jewish & Community Research, and the founder and leader of the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law, named for the late associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. He served as Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights at the United States Department of Education in the Trump administration from August 6, 2018 to July 9, 2020. Previously, he served as General Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity during the Bush administration, and as Staff Director of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights, 2004–2008.

Numerous civil rights organizations, including Palestine Legal, have expressed concern that "his view of civil rights, and whose should take priority, was too narrow" and accusing him of pro-Israel bias.

Reviews

[The Jewish Book Council]

Review by Jack Fischel for the Jewish Book Council.