AN ECONOMIC-THEORY OF ANTI-SEMITISM - EXPLORING ATTITUDES IN THE NEW GERMAN STATE

One of the most classical stereotypes of Jews is that they have a disp roportionate influence in economic matters. As a consequence, they are often affixed with undeserved blame by those experiencing economic di fficulties. Utilizing recent data gathered in Germany, this paper test s an economic explanation of antisemitism. A Linear Structural Relatio ns (LISREL) analysis finds little support for an economic explanation of antisemitism. The especially strong impact of anti-foreign sentimen t suggests that contemporary German antisemitism is largely a conseque nce of hostility toward foreign cultures and immigrants. In part, the Jews have been replaced by others as direct targets of prejudice.