Book

Holocaust Denial: The Politics of Perfidy

by Robert Solomon Wistrich

📖 Overview

Holocaust Denial: The Politics of Perfidy examines the phenomenon of Holocaust denial and its spread across different regions and political contexts. The book consists of essays by multiple scholars who analyze various aspects of Holocaust denial, from its origins to its modern manifestations. The collection explores specific cases of Holocaust denial in the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas, documenting how these ideas have evolved and gained traction in different societies. Contributors investigate the role of both individuals and institutions in promoting or combating denial, while examining the intersection between anti-Semitism and Holocaust denial. The work traces the development of denial narratives from the immediate post-war period through the digital age, including analysis of online platforms and social media. Historical documents, academic research, and contemporary examples support the examination of denial strategies and their impact on historical memory. This scholarly compilation addresses fundamental questions about truth, historical evidence, and the persistence of anti-Semitism in modern discourse. The book's relevance extends beyond Holocaust studies to broader discussions about historical truth and the manipulation of facts for political purposes.

👀 Reviews

This book appears to have limited public reader reviews available online. It has no ratings or reviews on Goodreads and only 2 reviews on Amazon. Readers noted the book's focus on documenting how Holocaust denial spreads through academic and political channels. One reviewer on Amazon highlighted the book's analysis of anti-Semitic rhetoric in the Middle East and its connection to Holocaust denial. Critical reviews mentioned: - Dense academic writing style that can be difficult for general readers - Limited discussion of Holocaust denial in the United States - High price point ($120+ for hardcover) Reviews are primarily found in academic journals rather than consumer review sites. The book is cited in scholarly works but has not gained widespread readership outside academic circles. Available Ratings: Amazon: 4.0/5 (2 reviews) Google Books: No ratings WorldCat: No ratings Goodreads: No ratings

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🤔 Interesting facts

🔹 Author Robert Wistrich was the Neuburger Professor of European and Jewish history at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and served as the head of the Vidal Sassoon International Center for the Study of Antisemitism. 🔹 The book explores how Holocaust denial has spread significantly in the Middle East and among Muslim populations, examining its role in anti-Israel propaganda and modern antisemitism. 🔹 The term "Holocaust denial" was first coined in the 1980s, though the phenomenon began immediately after World War II with early deniers like Maurice Bardèche and Paul Rassinier. 🔹 In many European countries including Germany, France, and Austria, Holocaust denial is a criminal offense that can result in imprisonment, while it remains protected speech in the United States under the First Amendment. 🔹 The book analyzes how the internet and social media have transformed Holocaust denial from a fringe conspiracy theory into a global movement that connects various extremist groups and ideologies.