Steve and I talk about the rise in Anti-Semitism both inside and outside the church. Where is it happening and why? What does the Bible tell Christians about what we should think about the Jews?
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Thankyou David & Stephen for this helpful discussion of what is at once a perennial and destructive and, I think, stupid idea. Just what is the, or ANY, rational basis for anti-semitism? Perhaps the sentiment – the prejudice – lies in that all-too-human attribute of fear of the dehumanised Other, being fed by willing ignorance, then leading to thoughtless envy or unfounded perception of threat? This can & does infect people of all stripes – Christian & non-Christian, any racial / ethnic subgrouping.
Further to this point about stupidity – I wonder if giving some blog attention to ANTI-STUPIDISM might be worthwhile, and as a good thing? Unlike many other human frailties or misfortunes there is not one kind word about stupidity, as displayed in intellectual or moral foolishness, in all of the Biblical record. Like cowardice it has no redeeming qualities at all. Yet there is no shortage of believers and non-believers alike who hold onto or peddle abject nonsense – sometimes innocently, sometimes dishonestly – masquerading as reason to support some conclusion with ill intent & which cannot tolerate any scrutiny. Maybe you might agree that the art of debate – a genuine & orderly contest of ideas without ad hominem – seems to be shrinking fast around us? Especially in these current days of populist leaders and frequent rejection of truth-telling or ethical behaviour my mind turns to Bonhoeffer’s Theory of Stupidity. It is really very clever and current and chilling.