Literature
Comparing Anti-Semitism in Putins Russia to Soviet Times
Comparing Anti-Semitism in Putin's Russia to Soviet Times
Anti-Semitism has been a persistent issue in Russian society over the past seven decades. This discussion will explore the levels and characteristics of anti-Semitism in modern Russia under President Vladimir Putin in comparison to the Soviet era.
Evidence from Public Opinion and Official Accounts
A recent poll conducted on a social platform revealed that 82 voters support the introduction of the controversial document, Protocols of Elders of Zion, into school programs. This poll received no downvotes, indicating strong support. The issue garnered attention from official accounts, including that of Michael MacFaul, the former U.S. Ambassador to Russia, and several current and former political figures in Iran and Russia, such as Vladimir Zhirinovsky and Mikhail Delagin. These accounts suggest that anti-Semitic sentiments are not restricted to fringe groups but have broader support.
Putin's Russia vs. Soviet Anti-Semitism
The nature of anti-Semitism under President Putin appears to be distinct from its presence during Soviet times. While anti-Semitism was significantly more pervasive and actively promoted under Soviet rule, the current administration does not openly endorse it. However, the lunatic fringe is no longer confined to the periphery of society.
Origins of Soviet Anti-Semitism
The Soviet era was characterized by the promotion of anti-Zionism and the suppression of information about the contributions of Jews to Soviet life. Jewish names and mentions of Jewish heritage were rarely visible in mainstream media, such as Soviet TV and movies. This suppression continued even during the brief period known as 'Khrushchev's Thaw' when some Jewish authors like Sholem Aleichem and Isaac Babel were published, but subsequent censorship led to the restriction of their works.
Anti-Semitic campaigns targeting Jews were well-documented, such as the prohibition of Jewish students, including those who were only part-Jewish, from enrolling in prestigious universities and colleges. For instance, the case of Sadivnichiy, who oversaw the ban on Jewish students enrolling in the Department of Mathematics at Moscow State University, illustrates the depth of anti-Semitic activities within the Soviet system. Sadivnichiy's post-Soviet career, which included becoming the rector of the university, demonstrates that support for these activities extended deeply within governmental institutions.
Domestic Anti-Semitism and Public Perception
There was also a form of domestic anti-Semitism that existed within everyday Russian society. For example, a young person in a sports camp might suggest that Jews sleep more than Russians, not out of malice, but to instill more discipline among his peers. This kind of anti-Semitic sentiment was deeply rooted in everyday discussions and attitudes among the populace.
The situation changed following the fall of the Soviet Union. The official end of state-sponsored anti-Semitism in 1989 paved the way for the emergence of fringe anti-Semitic groups. One such influential figure was Alexander Dugin, who promoted anti-Semitic ideologies but also manipulated these sentiments to serve broader political goals, especially in the context of the Ukrainian crisis.
The Rise of Dugin's Ideology
The failure to sufficiently energize the population with pro-government patriotism, particularly during the Ukraine crisis, led to the increasing popularity of Dugin's ideas among the Russian public. Dugin declared Christianity a Jewish plot, and his theories gained traction among the general population. This is a stark contrast to the situation under Soviet leadership, where anti-Semitic ideologies were systematically suppressed.
Conclusion
While Putin's Russia no longer openly promotes state-sponsored anti-Semitism, the rise of extreme anti-Semitic sentiments in the form of fringe groups is a concerning development. The integration of these ideologies into the fabric of Russian society is a complex issue that requires careful examination. It is crucial to address the underlying causes of such sentiments to promote a more inclusive and tolerant society.