Contours of Workplace Antisemitism: Initial Thoughts and a Research Agenda

Abstract

In the context of the rising tide of antisemitism worldwide, we wish to draw the contours of workplace organizational antisemitism, a hitherto ignored topic in contemporary scholarship, by presenting a framework for its study. In particular, we propose an interdisciplinary understanding of antisemitism in the workplace, drawing on theories and evidence from economics, management, and business. To contextually embed our propositions, we focus our discussion on two countries: Germany and Austria. We argue that given the deep-rooted, widespread antisemitic attitudes prevalent in both countries—in spite of their miniscule Jewish populations—it would be prudent for organizations and the people who work in them to be aware of and concerned with antisemitism.We offer two theoretical lenses explicating the underlying motivation for antisemitic conduct-primed goal pursuits (Goal Setting Theory) and mortality salience instigation and/or perceived violation of key worldview precepts (Terror Management Theory). These theories provide the dynamic element for our model on its four currents: Jewish “presence” (real and imaginary), implicit discrimination, Jewish identity, and grassroots cultural antisemitism. Highlighting selective issues of relevance to organizations and management, we end with suggestions for a research agenda.