The Charge of Anti-Semitism — Criticism of Israel, State Power, and Political Dissent | Chapter 4 of Precarious Life by Judith Butler

Can legitimate criticism of a state’s policies be mistaken—or deliberately mislabeled—as racism? In Chapter 4 of Precarious Life: The Powers of Mourning and Violence, Judith Butler tackles this contentious issue in a powerful chapter titled "The Charge of Anti-Semitism." With a nuanced and courageous argument, Butler explores how accusations of anti-Semitism have been deployed to silence political dissent, particularly regarding criticism of the Israeli government’s policies toward Palestinians.

Watch our full chapter summary from Last Minute Lecture to better understand Butler’s critical distinction between anti-Semitism and political critique:

Context: Lawrence Summers and the Politics of Conflation

Butler begins by referencing a 2002 speech delivered by Lawrence Summers, then-president of Harvard University, who argued that certain anti-Israel activities—such as divestment campaigns—were "anti-Semitic in effect, if not intent." Butler challenges this position by highlighting the danger of conflating criticism of Israeli state policy with anti-Jewish hatred. This conflation, she argues, serves to censor critical debate and to stigmatize those advocating for Palestinian rights.

Critique vs. Hatred: Drawing Ethical Boundaries

A central argument of this chapter is the need to distinguish between criticism of a government and racial or religious hatred. Butler stresses that while anti-Semitism must be firmly opposed, it is ethically irresponsible and politically dangerous to treat any critique of Israeli policies as inherently anti-Semitic. Doing so not only erodes public discourse, but also delegitimizes genuine moral and political concerns.

The Suppression of Dissent and Jewish Self-Critique

Butler explores how the charge of anti-Semitism is often wielded to silence dissenting voices—including Jewish voices critical of Israel. She underscores the importance of making space for intra-Jewish critique, where individuals can ethically and openly question the actions of the Israeli state without being accused of betraying their identity or community. In this way, Jewish self-critique becomes a crucial act of democratic participation and global justice.

Academic Freedom and Political Debate

Butler also touches on the implications of these accusations within academia, where scholars face increasing pressure to avoid politically sensitive topics. This trend threatens the core values of academic freedom, open inquiry, and democratic debate. For Butler, resisting censorship in the name of anti-racism is essential to maintaining a just and intellectually honest public sphere.

Why This Chapter Matters

This chapter is an urgent call to protect the space for critical political thought, especially in relation to controversial global conflicts like the Israeli-Palestinian crisis. Butler’s intervention is not about diminishing the reality of anti-Semitism—it is about preserving the moral clarity needed to confront both racism and unjust state policies. Her argument invites us to think more carefully and responsibly about how we use language, how we defend justice, and how we ensure that the charge of anti-Semitism is not used as a shield against accountability.

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