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Social science attitudinal research has an important radar function in the field of anti-Semitism. Which (new) anti-Semitic narratives are more effective? Which groups believe them? The Konrad Adenauer Foundation has measured these potentials in a study on the topic of diversity of opinion in an open society. Further attitudes toward statements with proximity to conspiracy beliefs, left-wing or right-wing extremism can provide information about the composition of the group with an affinity for anti-Semitism. In addition, differences in anti-Semitic attitudes are revealed in different population groups and by party affiliation.
Some key findings of our study are:
- A large majority of the German population firmly rejects anti-Semitic statements. The level of approval is low.
- Increased support is found among people with low levels of formal education, among people with a Muslim faith and/or an immigrant background, and within AfD supporters.
- People with left-wing and right-wing extremist attitudes show anti-Semitic attitudes significantly more often. However, the effect is stronger in the case of a tendency toward right-wing extremist attitudes.
- Conspiracy belief and classical anti-Semitism are often linked. People who believe in the existence of secret powers agree more than average with the anti-Semitic prejudice that "rich Jews are the real rulers of the world".
Please note, to date the study is only available in German.
