Antisemitism Quote by Phyllis Goldstein
““many of the key elements that define modern antisemitism can be traced to this time in history. A variety of stereotypes and myths lie at the heart of every hatred, including antisemitism. Stereotypes are the labels “we” attach to “them” and the assumptions “we” make about “them”—sometimes without ever meeting “them.” In this context, myths are lies based on those faulty assumptions, and they tend to endure because they appeal to strong emotions rather than to reason.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Modern Antisemitism, 2020
Hatred stems from stereotypes and myths that label “them,” persisting because they appeal to emotion over reason.
In simple terms: Prejudice thrives on emotional myths and stereotypes.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions and seek factual understanding.
Themes
prejudice
stereotypes
myths
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
sociological
educational
When to use this quote
- education
- media literacy
- interpersonal dialogue
Key Concepts
social psychology
bias formation
Questions to Reflect On
- What stereotypes influence your view of others?
- How can reason overcome emotional bias?
A Different Perspective
Emotions can reinforce false beliefs despite evidence.
![“After Portia has trapped Shylock through his own insistence upon the letter of the law of Contract, she produces another law by which any alien who conspires against the life of a Venetian citizen forfeits his goods and places his life at the Doge’s mercy. […] Shakespeare, it seems to me, was…” quote by W.H. Auden](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/25c/w-h-auden-2-7412_antisemitism_after-portia-has-trapped-shylock-through_382814.jpg)
