The Perils of Normalcy Bias: Why Jews in America Aren’t Heeding the Alarming Signals

Introduction

In a world where the geopolitical landscape is constantly shifting, where antisemitism is on the rise in various forms, and where historical precedents seem to be repeating themselves, one must ask: why are Jews in America seemingly oblivious to the signals being sent their way? This phenomenon, deeply rooted in a psychological concept known as normalcy bias, is akin to Pavlov’s dog—conditioned to ignore danger signs and to seek comfort in familiar routines. How do we explain the troubling complacency among American Jews regarding the growing threats against them even when there are myriad connections to historical and contemporary events.

Understanding Normalcy Bias

Normalcy bias is a cognitive bias that leads people to believe that things will always function the way they traditionally and always have functioned. This bias causes individuals to underestimate both the possibility of a disaster and the potential impact of one. In essence, it is the tendency to interpret warnings in the most optimistic way possible, dismissing signs of impending danger as anomalies. For American Jews, normalcy bias manifests in a reluctance to acknowledge and respond to the increasing antisemitism and geopolitical threats they face. I imagine Jews throughout history have succumbed to normalcy bias time and again.

The Current Geopolitical Landscape

The Biden administration’s approach towards Iran, characterized by attempts to revive the Iran nuclear deal and a seemingly conciliatory stance, is a significant signal that should alarm American Jews. Iran's regime has consistently expressed hostility towards Israel and by extension, Jews worldwide. Interestingly, they have continued to threaten western culture completely including the United States. The administration’s actions, perceived as capitulation, embolden a regime that funds and supports terrorist organizations with antisemitic and anti-American agendas. This should serve as a wake-up call, yet the Jewish community's response has been largely muted, influenced by normalcy bias and a desire to maintain political affiliations and societal acceptance. Americans in general continue to think that this will all just go away.

Rising Antisemitism in Europe

Europe, once home to vibrant Jewish communities, is witnessing a resurgence of antisemitism. From the desecration of Jewish cemeteries in France to violent attacks in Germany and the United Kingdom, the continent is becoming increasingly hostile towards Jews. These incidents are not isolated but part of a broader trend of growing intolerance and hate. However, American Jews, often insulated by their relatively secure position, fail to recognize that the hate brewing across the Atlantic can easily spill over into their own backyard. This complacency is dangerous and reminiscent of the pre-World War II era, where Jews in Europe were slow to respond to the rising tide of antisemitism, clinging to a false sense of security.

Antisemitism in North America

The United States and Canada are not immune to this trend. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in antisemitic rhetoric and violence. From the deadly shootings, violence against visibly Jewish Jews in New York, and most recently Canada’s attack against the Jewish National Fund, fighting their non-profit status across the country. This, of course, is a small part of what we have seen across the diaspora with demonstrations and calls to kill all Jews on college campuses and social media, Jews in North America are under threat. Yet, many American Jews continue to downplay these dangers, influenced by a belief that their democratic institutions and societal norms will protect them. This reliance on normalcy bias prevents proactive measures and advocacy for stronger protections and countermeasures.

The Danger of Complacency

This pervasive complacency among American Jews can be likened to Pavlov’s dog—a conditioned response to ignore danger in favor of perceived normalcy. The historical precedents are clear: complacency and denial have often preceded disaster. The Jews of Europe in the 1930s, many of whom believed that their contributions to society and their integration would shield them from harm, faced catastrophic consequences. Today’s American Jews, by ignoring the alarming signals around them, risk repeating these mistakes.

Psychological and Sociopolitical Factors

Several psychological and sociopolitical factors contribute to this normalcy bias. Firstly, there is a deep-seated desire to believe in the stability and benevolence of the democratic systems in the United States and Canada. This belief is reinforced by a historical narrative of refuge and success in these countries. Secondly, there is a fear of exacerbating antisemitism by appearing overly defensive or alarmist. Many Jews prefer to blend in, fearing that vocal opposition or heightened security measures might provoke further animosity. Jews have also voted in one manner for decades worrying about social issues more than they worry about the issues facing the Jewish community. It’s time to recognize that when there are no more Jews, the worry about those social issues will fall to another group.

The Role of Jewish Leadership

Jewish leadership, including organizations and religious leaders, plays a crucial role in shaping community perceptions and responses. There is a need for more vocal and decisive leadership that acknowledges the severity of the threats and advocates for proactive measures. This includes lobbying for stronger policies against antisemitism, enhancing security at Jewish institutions, and educating the community about the importance of vigilance and self-defense. One can argue there is and has been a dearth of Jewish leadership for a long time. Organizations that proclaim to fight antisemitism sit by while antisemitism is growing exponentially.

The Importance of Awareness and Action

Breaking free from the grip of normalcy bias requires a concerted effort to raise awareness and encourage action. Education is key—both within the Jewish community and in the broader society. Historical lessons must be revisited, and contemporary threats must be recognized and addressed with urgency. Community resilience can be bolstered through programs that promote self-defense, emergency preparedness, and active participation in political advocacy.

Conclusion

The perils of normalcy bias are evident in the current complacency of American Jews amidst rising antisemitism and geopolitical threats. The signs are clear, yet the response remains muted, influenced by a psychological inclination to cling to familiar routines and a false sense of security. It is imperative for American Jews to awaken to these dangers, drawing lessons from history and taking proactive steps to safeguard their future. Complacency is not an option; vigilance and action are essential to countering the growing tide of antisemitism and ensuring the safety and well-being of the Jewish community in America. It’s time for Pavlov’s dog to find new treats.

Steve Rosenberg is the Principal of the TeamGSD. He is also the author of the book, Make Bold Things Happen: Inspirational Stories From Sports, Business And Life.