welt.de
German Film Industry's Silence on Rising Antisemitism Condemned
Martin Moszkowicz, a German film producer, criticizes the German film and television industry's silence regarding rising antisemitism, noting the absence of major players among signatories to a new five-point plan against antisemitism.
- What is the main criticism leveled by Martin Moszkowicz against the German film industry?
- Moszkowicz condemns the industry's silence on rising antisemitism, highlighting the lack of signatures from key players—including film schools, major broadcasters, production companies, and industry associations—on a new five-point plan against antisemitism. He finds the near-total absence of support particularly alarming given the industry's frequent pronouncements on diversity and social responsibility.
- What justifications does Moszkowicz cite for the industry's inaction, and how does he refute them?
- Moszkowicz cites excuses like maintaining 'neutrality', concerns about including only some Semites (Arabs are not mentioned in the plan), and fear of being labeled 'pro-Israel'. He counters that neutrality towards hate and violence is impossible; seeking a 'middle ground' between opposing antisemitism and supporting it equates to siding with antisemites.
- What are the broader implications of the German film industry's response (or lack thereof) to rising antisemitism?
- The silence is dangerous, Moszkowicz argues, because the film and media industry creates narratives with far-reaching effects. The failure to speak out allows antisemitism to be presented as legitimate political discourse. This inaction leaves the field open to those who disguise antisemitism as political debate.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the silence of the German film industry regarding rising antisemitism as a significant problem. The headline and opening sentences immediately highlight Moszkowicz's criticism, setting a critical tone. The emphasis on the lack of signatures from major players in the industry reinforces this negative framing. However, the article also presents counterarguments, such as the excuses given by those who didn't sign, allowing for a more nuanced perspective. The inclusion of prominent supporters of the Five-Point Plan adds weight to the importance of the issue. The structure, while initially critical, does provide space for alternative viewpoints, limiting the severity of the framing bias.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, although terms like "befremdliches Schweigen" (baffling silence) and "gefährlich" (dangerous) carry a negative connotation. The description of the excuses as "absurd" also introduces a subjective judgment. More neutral alternatives could include 'unexpected silence,' 'concerning,' and 'problematic' respectively. The repeated use of "Schweigen" (silence) emphasizes the perceived inaction of the industry.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the film industry's response. While it mentions the Five-Point Plan's broader aims, it omits details about the plan's potential impact or wider societal implications of antisemitism beyond the film industry. This omission might limit the reader's understanding of the issue's full scope. The article also doesn't delve into potential reasons for the industry's silence beyond the excuses provided, which could offer additional context.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a dichotomy between those who actively combat antisemitism and those who remain silent, implying a simple eitheor situation. It argues that neutrality in the face of antisemitism is equivalent to supporting it. This simplifies a complex issue, potentially neglecting nuances of individual motivations and the complexities of industry responses.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the concerning silence of the German film industry in the face of rising antisemitism. This inaction undermines efforts to combat hate speech and discrimination, hindering the progress of SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels. The industry's failure to condemn antisemitism and actively participate in initiatives like the five-point plan against antisemitism directly impacts the goal of creating just and peaceful societies.