The need for academic thinking even when it comes to the Middle East
Student rabbi and UvA student Yanki Jacobs is alarmed by the proliferation of superficial and uninformed views at the UvA on the conflict between Israel and Hamas. ‘It is an issue of immense complexity, requiring multiple layers of perspective and interpretation.’
A recent request to share my insight on the conflict between Israel and Hamas has made me consider how best to discuss this sensitive topic. Since I am a rabbi, it should come as no surprise that my support for Israel is unwavering, especially in light of the barbaric attacks by the terrorist movement Hamas, who not only attack Israel but also threaten the well-being and safety of the Palestinian civilian population. But even if I clearly take sides in principle, the reality remains that this issue is not as black and white as some would have you believe. It is an issue of immense complexity, requiring multiple layers of perspective and interpretation.
The multiple approaches to this conflict are as diverse as the people discussing it. From religious considerations to the international laws of war, and from such fundamental principles as the right of self-determination to the strength of emotional responses, each point of view brings its own truth. Yet what I have seen lately here at the UvA is a disturbing lack of objective analysis and a proliferation of superficial and uninformed viewpoints.
Clearly, this conflict has had a profound effect on our student community. The fear caused by horrific images of violence and uncertainty about the fate of loved ones has created an atmosphere of unrest and insecurity unprecedented in our academic environment.
What is even more disturbing are two things. On the one hand, it seems that many views are based on information derived from social media and unsubstantiated and above all short-sighted appeals rather than from in-depth knowledge and understanding of the complex nature of the conflict. On the other hand, it seems that part of the university community deliberately adopts a one-sided perspective. This is troubling, especially for an academic community where one is actually encouraged to engage in deep research and nuanced thinking.
It is important that we form our understandings based on reliable information and broad knowledge of the historical and political context of the conflict. As students at a distinguished university such as the University of Amsterdam, which also happens to have a multitude of books on the subject in its library, we must strive for a holistic understanding of the issue. We must understand not only the Al Jazeera point of view, but also that of The Times of Israel, and thoroughly study all available sources before taking our positions.
In times of social unrest and international tension, we must be aware of the consequences of our actions and positions, especially in a diverse community such as that of the UvA. It is essential that we act respectfully and thoughtfully, being aware of how our words and actions may affect others. Perhaps it would be wise to use our academic knowledge as a compass to guide us through this complicated world of war, violence, and misinformation, with empathy for fellow students and all who suffer from this conflict.
About the author: Yanki Jacobs is a student rabbi in the Jewish community and is also a master’s student in Middle East studies at the University of Amsterdam.
