Sociologist and Jewish studies scholar Shaul Kelner joins us for a deep dive into the political and sociological roots of antizionism—and why understanding it as an organized movement rather than simply individual prejudice matters more than ever. We explore how antizionism has become increasingly institutionalized across academia, activism, and political culture, often creating a language and framework that fuels antisemitic narratives and violence. Kelner unpacks the distinctions and overlaps between antisemitism and antizionism, how movements on both the political left and right intersect in unexpected ways, and why reducing these issues to terminology debates misses the larger structural problem. From cultural narratives and activist mobilization to the future risks facing Jewish communities worldwide, this conversation offers a sharp, thought-provoking look at one of the defining ideological battles shaping public discourse today. About the guest Shaul Kelner is a Professor of Jewish Studies and Sociology at Vanderbilt University whose work focuses on the sociology of American Jewish life, transnational Jewish identity, and the intersection of culture and politics. A nationally recognized scholar and award-winning author, Kelner is known for his research on Jewish activism, diaspora identity, Birthright Israel, and contemporary antisemitism and antizionism. His work examines how political movements, institutions, and cultural narratives shape Jewish communal life and public discourse. (as.vanderbilt.edu)
00:00 – Introduction & Framing the Debate
00:58 – Understanding Antizionism Politically
03:34 – Antizionism on the Left and Right
05:06 – Systemic Antizionism Explained
07:01 – Antizionism vs. Antisemitism
09:00 – Why Labels Matter Less Than Actions
13:17 – The Institutional Rise of Antizionism
18:09 – How Extremists Rebrand Narratives
30:47 – Activism, Mobilization & Motivation
35:14 – Hope, Resilience & Community Response