The Holocaust Industry: Reflections on the Exploitation of Jewish Suffering

Norman G. Finkelstein

Quick Take

Controversial indictment of those who exploit the tragedy of the Holocaust for their own gain.In an iconoclastic and controversial study, Norman G. Finkelstein moves from an interrogation of the place the Holocaust has come to occupy in American culture to a disturbing examination of recent Holocaust compensation agreements. It was not until the Arab-Israeli War of 1967, when Israel's evident strength brought it into line with US foreign policy, that memory of the Holocaust began to acquire the exceptional prominence it enjoys today. Leaders of America's Jewish community were delighted that Israel was now deemed a major strategic asset and, Finkelstein contends, exploited the Holocaust to enhance this newfound status. Their subsequent interpretations of the tragedy are often at variance with actual historical events and are employed to deflect any criticism of Israel and its supporters. Recalling Holocaust fraudsters such as Jerzy Kosinski and Binjamin Wilkomirski, as well as the demagogic constructions of writers like Daniel Goldhagen, Finkelstein contends that the main danger posed to the memory of Nazism's victims comes not from the distortions of Holocaust deniers but from prominent, self-proclaimed guardians of Holocaust memory. Drawing on a wealth of untapped sources, he exposes the double shakedown of European countries as well as legitimate Jewish claimants, and concludes that the Holocaust industry has become an outright extortion racket. Thoroughly researched and closely argued, The Holocaust Industry is all the more disturbing and powerful because the issues it deals with are so rarely discussed.In a devastating new postscript to this best-selling book, Norman G. Finkelstein documents the Holocaust industry's scandalous cover-up of the blackmail of Swiss banks, and in a new appendix demolishes an influential apologia for the Holocaust industry.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Holocaust Industry: Reflections on the Exploitation of Jewish Suffering

Introduction

In this book, Norman G. Finkelstein delves into the controversial topic of the exploitation of Jewish suffering in the aftermath of the Holocaust. He examines how the memory of the Holocaust has been used for political and financial gain, and how prominent Jewish organizations have shaped the narrative of the event to suit their own interests. Finkelstein's work challenges commonly held views and raises important questions about the true nature of the Holocaust industry.

About Norman G. Finkelstein

Norman G. Finkelstein is a prominent critic of Israeli policy, particularly towards Palestinians. He is known for his fierce and controversial stance on this issue, which has often put him at odds with pro-Israel advocates. Finkelstein is the son of a Holocaust survivor, which adds a personal dimension to his critique of the exploitation of Jewish suffering. His expertise in this area has earned him both admiration and criticism from readers.

Analysis of Views

The Exploitation of Jewish Suffering: Readers express their shock and sadness at the extent to which Jewish suffering has been exploited for personal gain. They believe that if even half of what Finkelstein presents in the book is true, it is a deeply disturbing and unacceptable phenomenon. They feel that survivors and their descendants deserve to have their stories heard and respected, rather than being used as pawns in a larger political game.
The Role of Jewish Organizations: Readers are critical of prominent Jewish organizations that have been accused of using their position to further their own interests. They believe that these organizations have distorted historical events and used their influence to deflect criticism of Israel and its supporters. Some readers feel that these organizations have betrayed the memory of Nazism's victims by engaging in such behavior.
The Power of Money and Influence: Readers are struck by the extent to which money and influence have shaped the narrative of the Holocaust. They believe that powerful individuals and organizations have used their wealth and connections to manipulate public opinion and advance their own agendas. They see this as a clear example of how money can corrupt even the most noble causes.
The Need for Balance and Objectivity: Some readers feel that Finkelstein's work is necessary to counteract the one-sided narrative that has emerged around the Holocaust. They believe that it is important to explore both the positive and negative aspects of this event, and to avoid becoming trapped in a cycle of victimhood and blame. They see Finkelstein's book as a valuable contribution to this conversation.
The Controversial Nature of Finkelstein's Work: Despite its critical reception, some readers remain skeptical of Finkelstein's work. They question his motives and his credibility, and argue that his views are biased and not supported by evidence. They believe that he has a personal agenda and is using his platform to promote his own political views.

Reasons for Recommendation

Thorough Research: Readers recommend this book for its thorough research and well-documented claims. They appreciate the extensive footnotes and sources cited throughout the book, which add credibility to Finkelstein's arguments. They believe that Finkelstein's work provides a valuable perspective on a topic that has often been shrouded in secrecy and misinformation.
Challenging the Status Quo: Readers recommend this book for its ability to challenge commonly held views and assumptions about the Holocaust industry. They appreciate Finkelstein's willingness to question established narratives and to expose hidden truths. They believe that this book provides an important counterpoint to the dominant narrative, and encourages readers to think critically about the role of money, power, and politics in shaping our understanding of history.
Important Topic: Readers recommend this book for its exploration of an important topic that has significant implications for our understanding of history and our current political landscape. They believe that it is essential to examine the ways in which powerful interests have exploited tragedy for their own gain, and to hold them accountable for their actions. They see this book as a valuable contribution to this conversation.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Biased Perspective: Some readers feel that Finkelstein's work is biased and not objective enough. They believe that he has a personal agenda and is using his platform to promote his own political views, rather than presenting a balanced perspective on the topic. They see this as a significant flaw in his work and feel that it detracts from its overall credibility.
Lack of Evidence: Some readers feel that Finkelstein's claims lack sufficient evidence to support them. They believe that he relies too heavily on anecdotal evidence and personal opinions, rather than presenting concrete facts and data. They feel that this undermines the credibility of his arguments and makes it difficult for readers to fully engage with his ideas.
Sensitive Subject Matter: Finally, some readers find the subject matter of this book deeply disturbing and unsettling. They believe that it is important to approach sensitive topics with sensitivity and respect, rather than with accusations and vitriol. They feel that Finkelstein's work falls short in this regard, and that it fails to acknowledge the complexities and nuances of the issue at hand.