Brief Summary
The discussion centres around a recent Pew Research survey indicating a rise in anti-Israel sentiment globally, particularly among those on the left in the United States. The panel explores the underlying reasons for this shift, attributing it to woke ideology, Soviet-style propaganda, and a broader anti-Western sentiment. They also discuss the complexities of defining "pro-Israel," the role of altruism, and the increasing normalisation of anti-Semitism. The conversation touches on the political realignment in the US, the actions of the Biden administration, and historical perspectives on the Arab-Israeli conflict, including Ayn Rand's views.
- Global rise in anti-Israel sentiment, especially among the left in the US.
- Influence of woke ideology and Soviet-style propaganda.
- The need to define "pro-Israel" and the role of altruism.
- Increasing normalisation of anti-Semitism and violence against Jews.
- Discussion of potential political realignments and the complexities of Middle Eastern politics.
Survey on Attitudes Towards Israel
A recent Pew Research survey reveals widespread anti-Israel sentiment globally, with varying degrees of opposition depending on the country. Turkey shows the highest negative view at 93%, while in the US, 53% hold a negative opinion, marking an 11-point increase since 2022. The panel aims to analyse these findings and discuss potential strategies to counter this trend, beyond simply promoting the Ayn Rand Centre UK's content.
Political Divide in the US
The discussion highlights a growing political divide in the US regarding support for Israel, with Republicans showing increased support and Democrats exhibiting near-zero support. This shift is attributed to a woke, leftist, intersectional perspective that frames Israel as a capitalistic, white colonial oppressor of the Palestinians, echoing Soviet-era propaganda. The panel also notes the decline in moderate voices within the Democratic party, questioning the current state of American politics.
The Role of Religious Conservatives
The conversation addresses the role of religious conservatives in supporting Israel due to Judeo-Christian connections, while also acknowledging that some conservatives recognise Israel as a beacon of Western civilisation in a barbaric region. It is argued that even when Democrats voice support for concepts like freedom of choice or free speech, they often lack a full understanding of individual rights rooted in absolute principles against the state. The world is seen as stuck between opposing forces that fundamentally agree on collectivist premises.
Political Slogans and Defining Liberalism
The panel discusses political slogans, referencing George H.W. Bush's "Read my lips: no new taxes" as a direct statement. The definition of "liberal" is examined, suggesting it should be associated with the support of liberal democracy and separation of powers, rather than being co-opted by the left. The survey indicates a significant split in the US, with 74% of the left viewing Israel unfavourably compared to 30% on the right.
The Definition of "Pro-Israel"
The discussion emphasises the importance of defining "pro-Israel," suggesting that many who claim to support Israel only believe in its existence but not in its right to defend itself. It's argued that Democrats risk alienating themselves by aligning with radical elements, potentially costing them elections. The panel references Joe Biden's historical pro-Israel stance, noting that his administration has often undermined Israel's actions.
Political Realignment in the United States
The US is undergoing a political realignment, with parties shifting their focuses and voters changing allegiances. This realignment is occurring around negative premises. Despite occasional pro-Israel statements from figures like Biden, his actions often contradict this stance, including imposing arms embargoes and hindering appropriate responses. The current political spectrum is criticised for being based on varying degrees of statism rather than individualism versus collectivism.
Defining "Pro-Israel" and Historical Context
The importance of defining "pro-Israel" is reiterated, as vague notions can be easily manipulated. It's argued that many people support Israel's existence but oppose its actions in Gaza. The panel criticises the lack of clear goals and definitions in American foreign policy. George W. Bush's response to 9/11 is contrasted with Biden's approach, which is seen as targeting Israel.
Ayn Rand's Opinion on Israel
Ayn Rand's 1973 statement on the Arab-Israeli conflict is shared, advocating for full support of Israel with technology and military weapons. Rand viewed the Arabs as a less developed culture resisting Israel's modern civilisation. She emphasised the importance of supporting the civilised against the savages, regardless of their economic system.
Israel as a Beacon of Western Civilisation
Israel is described as a beacon of Western civilisation fighting against barbarism. The term "Palestinian" is dismissed as Soviet propaganda from the 1960s, designed to frame the conflict as oppressed natives versus colonial oppressors. The billions in aid given to Gaza were used to build terrorist tunnels aimed at destroying Israel.
Trump's Travel Ban and Modern Savagery
The panel discusses Trump's travel ban, suggesting it should allow for the entry of beneficial individuals from those countries. Israel is now more modern but the Arabs in the region are more savage than before. The population is deeply embedded with Hamas, making it difficult for Israel to establish itself. Israel faces greater condemnation than in the past, raising questions about how Ayn Rand would view the situation today.
Moral Support for Israel and Ukraine
The moral travesty of countries like Israel and Ukraine lacking moral support in their fight against dictatorships is highlighted. The Palestinians receive gifts for being backwards, while Rand's rational perspective makes the choice clear. The panel references Barry Weiss's talk on how a culture's treatment of Jews indicates its direction.
Negative Views of Israel in Various Countries
The survey results show high negative views of Israel in countries like Japan (79%) and the Netherlands (78%). The UK has a 61% negative view. The panel questions where these countries will be in the future. The role of altruism is discussed, with people feeling a duty to help the "weak" Arabs against the "successful" Israel.
Altruism and Anti-Western Ideology
Altruism disarms people's ability to recognise why Israel is good and should be defended. Anti-Israel activists hate America and seek its destruction, aligning with an anti-Western ideology. Israel is fighting a war against the leading representative of this ideology, which is Iran and its Islamic totalitarian jihadist attitude.
Iran as the Primary Threat
Iran is identified as the primary threat, striving to destroy capitalism, success, freedom, and limited government. Entities like Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis are supported by Iran. Qatar is criticised as a criminal state funded by oil money and Iran. The October 7th attack aimed to stop the treaty between Saudi Arabia and Israel.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE
Saudi Arabia is starting to liberalise, allowing women to drive and banning radical Islamic terrorist organisations. The UAE is presented as a good example of an Arab country, though still not completely free. The Abraham Accords are viewed differently, with some seeing them as legitimising dictatorships.
The Abraham Accords and Gradual Change
The Abraham Accords are supported for removing military threats to Israel and reinforcing liberalising influences in Saudi Arabia. Change is gradual, and countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE are moving in the right direction. The American Revolution was a unique event, and change typically occurs over long periods.
Favourable Views Towards Israel in Africa and India
Countries with the most favourable views towards Israel include Nigeria (59%) and Kenya (50%). The US is at 45%. South Africa is at 34%, with many commenters disliking the term "South Africa" due to the ANC. The difference between the people and the leadership is discussed, with Saudi Arabia being an absolute monarchy where the king and crown prince hold significant power.
Liberalisation and Collectivist Premises
Liberalisation doesn't come from open markets and prosperity, but rather liberalism leads to free markets and prosperity. China is an example of a country that became prosperous but more authoritarian. The underlying collectivist premises that drive statism, tribalism, racism, and anti-Semitism have always been present.
Unleashing Collectivist Premises
October 7th made it acceptable to express collectivist premises, leading to increased violence and anti-Semitic attacks. The social taboo against racism has been removed, leading to violence. Recent anti-Semitic attacks in America are highlighted, including firebombings and executions.
Media Promotion of Hamas Propaganda
The media is knowingly promoting Hamas propaganda, leading to terrorist attacks. The attackers are not independent thinkers and rely on the media to guide them. A survey in Israel shows Netanyahu with the lowest unfavourable rating compared to other leaders. The values align with the savages, which is terrifying.
The Rise of Open Anti-Semitism
The rise of open anti-Semitism is exemplified by Kanye West, who was initially cancelled for anti-Semitic remarks but later released a song called "Hy Hitler" with little backlash. The panel notes the increasing normalisation of anti-Semitism, with examples like "Queers for Palestine" highlighting the absurdity.
