Are English Academics Anti-Semitic?
I imagine that for many decades that was probably like asking whether the Pope was Catholic, but the question has resurfaced now with the decision by Britain's National Association of Teachers in Further and Higher Education to boycott Israeli academics who support their government.
The Crimson today reports on Larry Summers' charge that that move is anti-Semitic.
Though it contains quotes from Alan Dershowitz, Marty Peretz, and Randy Matory, the article doesn't add much to what the Financial Times reported yesterday. That's because Summers himself refused to comment, which is curious. Has he decided that when he has something major to say, he'll say it outside the Harvard community? Does he not feel that his remarks require further explanation?
Last time around, in September 2002, Summers leveled the charge of anti-Semitism in a Morning Prayers speech, but refused to subsequently explain his remarks further. (Although when meeting with Jewish groups, he would reiterate the charge.)
My guess is twofold: One, that Summers isn't comfortable talking about this issue spontaneously, that he needs prepared remarks to feel on solid ground. And two, he really doesn't want to be drawn into a debate on the subject; he wants his words to be, not an argument, but a pronouncement.
This episode reveals why Summers can be so frustrating. Perhaps he's right and the NATFHE move is anti-Semitic—but one can't simply just declare that and then expect everyone to go, "Oh, Larry Summers said it's anti-Semitic, 'nuff said."
As he has done on numerous prior occasions, Summers gives a soundbite to a newspaper on a subject which really deserves more serious consideration, then refuses to expand on his remarks. Why? Why not try to generate a serious discussion? Why not explain exactly why you think the NATFHE decision is anti-Semitic?
Soundbites are not the mark of a serious man. And yet, Summers is a serious man. How to reconcile these two things?
Even now, on his way out the door, the man fascinates—and bewilders.
