Institutional Discriminatory Political Silence on October 7, 2023: A Plea for Metaphysical Guilt

This article examines the concept of political silence within the context of academic institutions' responses to war crimes and injustices, focusing particularly on the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. It argues that academic silence is not merely a lack of action but can function as a discriminatory tool, especially when human rights violations are not explicitly addressed. Drawing on Karl Jaspers' concept of metaphysical guilt, the article explores how political silence reflects an ethical failure and serves as a case study for understanding the broader implications of systemic discrimination. By connecting these events to the less recent and contemporary dynamics of the Jewish history, the article highlights the critical role of academic institutions in breaking political silence. It advocates for fostering critical thinking, moral responsibility, and the preservation of democratic values to prevent the perpetuation of discriminatory and polarizing narratives.