Anti-Semitism in Poland After Auschwitz

Controversial sociologist Jan Gross's new book on anti-semitism in post-World War II Poland, 'Fear: Anti-Semitism in Poland After Auschwitz' is due out this week and is already ruffling feathers in society.

His former publication 'Neighbours: The Destruction of the Jewish Community in Jedwabne '(2001), described how Polish Jews in the small village of Jedwabne were killed by their fellow citizens over 60 years ago.

The author explained to Polish Radio that “The post-war aggression of Poles towards Jews is deeply rooted in the attitudes assumed by Poles during the war." He further states that "It was the effect of a complete devaluation of moral norms that should be adhered to by every Christian, and that was the main source of the post-war aggression of Poles towards Jews."

The launch of this book will create a much needed debate within Poland about acknowledging its own complicity in war crimes against its Jewish population, after the Nazi campaign of genocide had all but eradicated the once thriving, large religious community.

It comes as His Royal Highness George Bush II is quoted as saying that Auschwitz should have been bombed all them years ago. Whether George's reasons are humanitarian or to aid his buddies in the arms factories is not entirely clear though.

More info. on Polish Radio