Language:
English
Year of publication:
2011
Titel der Quelle:
Genocide Studies and Prevention
Angaben zur Quelle:
6, 2 (2011) 193-202
Keywords:
Steiner, George,
;
Holocaust (Jewish theology)
Abstract:
Argues that George Steiner's writings on the Holocaust contain interpretations, explanations, and implications that are faulty. Criticizes Steiner's conception of himself as "a kind of survivor" as being disrespectful toward both the victims and the actual survivors of the Holocaust. His main argument is that the Jews brought the destruction upon themselves because they had invented the practice of genocide in biblical times and the idea of a chosen people, as well as because they had, through Moses, Jesus, and Marx, created such moral demands on ordinary human beings that the tension became unbearable and resulted in a revolt against the tyranny of conscience and perfection. Notes that his main argument stems from misinterpreted Freudian views and does not stand up to criticism. No one knows who invented genocide, and those who sought to commit it had plenty of models from which to choose. Moreover, the genocidal revolt against unbearable religious and moral norms could have turned against a long list of those to be killed rather than only against Jews. Steiner also fails to explain why the Holocaust came about in Germany rather than some other "over-populated" country.
URL:
Locate this publication in Israeli libraries
Permalink