Your Brain On

Antisemitism

The first book to explain antisemitism as an evolutionarily developed brain reflex—not a form of hate—revealing why anti-Jewish information often feels true even when it’s not.

Your Brain On

Antisemitism

The first book to explain antisemitism as an evolutionarily developed brain reflex—not a form of hate—revealing why anti-Jewish information often feels true even when it’s not.

What you’ll learn

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    Why antisemitism feels intuitive — how the brain turns complex problems into simple villain stories.

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    The psychology of pattern-seeking — why people connect unrelated dots and “discover” hidden cabals.

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    How old myths adapt — from medieval blood libels to modern claims about banks, media, Gaza, and AIPAC.

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    Why rational people fall for irrational ideas — the cognitive shortcuts that make conspiracy theories feel logical.

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    The emotional payoff — how scapegoating provides meaning, purpose, and even a sense of heroism.

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    Why it never goes away — the reflexive nature of antisemitism and why it thrives in both conservative and progressive spaces.

Preview The Book

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Testimonials

  • “Kirsch shows how antisemitism taps into old psychological reflexes, and how recognizing those patterns can help us grow into more thoughtful, balanced humans. It’s a book about prejudice, but also about becoming more aware of ourselves.”

    Laurie Payton

  • “Your Brain on Antisemitism is equal parts history, psychology, and mirror. I saw how easy it is for anyone—myself included—to slip into dangerous patterns of thought. It’s the most eye-opening and unsettling book I’ve read in years, and also the most necessary.”

    Jamie Kokot

  • “Finally, a book that makes sense of why antisemitism keeps resurfacing, even in circles that see themselves as progressive. Kirsch shows the psychology behind the hatred without shaming the reader, which makes the lessons land even harder.”

    Lindsey Beumer

  • “This book helped me see antisemitism not just as history’s prejudice, but as a window into how our minds search for order and blame. Kirsch makes you think about humanity as a whole.”

    Keith Finley