Eugene Volokah writes in The Wall Street Journal:
Modest amounts of anti-Semitic speech and unfair criticism of Israel, it seems to me, can strengthen American Jews’ self-identity as Jews, and thus indirectly both support the preservation of the American Jewish community as a community, and strengthen support for Israel. Feeling embattled as a group tends to strengthen group solidarity. Hearing unfair criticisms for Israel tends to strengthen the sense that Israel is unfairly embattled and deserves more support. Feeling some fear of anti-Semitism reminds American Jews of the value of preserving American Jewish institutions. And it reminds American Jews of the value of protecting Israel, in case one day American Jews may need refuge somewhere just as European Jews once did.
Volokah’s argument is logical and accurate, but it is still wrong. Yes, groups tend to circle the wagons when they feel threatened, but in this context, these motivations will harm Israel and the Jewish commnity in the end.
If Jews are motivated to build their communities and support Israel because of anti-Semitism, then that is negative reinforcement. A foundation built on negative reinforcement never lasts, and it would eventually lead to resentment towards Judaism and Israel. (“The only reason that I am focusing on my Jewish identity is because everyone else hates me.” How solid of a motivation is that?)
Rather, Israel and the Jewish community need positive reinforcement. Jews should want to support their synagogues, community groups and Israel itself because they feel a positive connection to those places and activities. This is the only way to build foundations that last.
Throughout Jewish history in the Diaspora, Jews became more, well, Jewish following periods of persecution. But there was an ebb and flow. Once things settled down, Jews began assimilating again. Such an up-and-down interest does nothing to help the community. Instead, the Jewish world needs to work to instill positive feelings toward Judaism and Israel — in good times and bad.
