Skip to content

American society Quote by Cornel West

“Black anti-semitism is a form of underdog resentment and envy, directed at another underdog who has made it in American society. The remarkable upward mobility of American Jews--rooted chiefly in a history and culture that places a premium on higher education and self-organization--easily lends…” quote by Cornel West
Download Open image
““Black anti-semitism is a form of underdog resentment and envy, directed at another underdog who has made it in American society. The remarkable upward mobility of American Jews--rooted chiefly in a history and culture that places a premium on higher education and self-organization--easily lends itself to myths of Jewish unity and homogeneity that have gained currency among other groups, especially among relatively unorganized groups like black Americans. The high visibility of Jews in the upper reaches of the academy, journalism, the entertainment industry, and the professions--though less so percentage-wise in corporate America and national political office--is viewed less as a result of hard work and success fairly won and more as a matter of favoritism and nepotism among Jews. Ironically, calls for black solidarity and achievement are often modeled on myths of Jewish unity--as both groups respond to American xenophobia and racism. But in times such as these, some blacks view Jews as obstacles rather than allies in the struggle for racial justice.””

Cornel West

About This Quote

Source Essay: Race and Antisemitism in America, 2021

The author argues that some Black Americans view Jews as rivals due to perceived preferential treatment, reflecting complex inter‑group resentment.

In simple terms: Black resentment toward Jews stems from perceived favoritism.

Key Takeaway

Recognize nuanced inter‑group dynamics.

Themes

race antisemitism resentment social hierarchy

Mood

critical analytical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic discourse
  • community dialogue
  • policy making

Key Concepts

group identity myths economic mobility solidarity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can solidarity be built across marginalized groups?
  • What role does education play in reducing resentment?
A Different Perspective

Simplifying groups as monolithic ignores individual experiences.

2.4 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Cornel West

Explore all 400 Cornel West quotes

More American society quotes

Browse all 315 American society quotes