How Hate Evolves

Hate doesn't always look the same. It shifts, adapts, and often disguises itself in language that can seem reasonable on the surface. In this episode of Chosen For What?, host Tommy Schnurmacher explores how hate evolves over time, how it takes root in societies, and how it continues to impact individuals and communities today.

Neal Dalzell is a social studies teacher who teaches a class on the sociology of genocide at Centennial Regional High School in Greenfield Park, Quebec, who offers a sociological perspective on how groups begin to define "us" versus "them," and how those divisions can escalate into exclusion and violence.

Anthropologist Adam Louis-Klein shares insight into how to engage with people who hold hateful views, and what it takes to challenge those beliefs in a meaningful way.

Rabbi Lisa Grushcow, Temple Emanu-El Beth Shalom, adds another layer to the conversation, reflecting on the origins of hate and the deeper need for control and certainty that can drive it.

The episode also looks ahead, focusing on what can be done to push back against hatred in everyday life. Mollie Bowman, Managing Director of Living Links, speaks to the power of community, education, and collective action in creating change. Together, these conversations explore questions many people are asking today: What does modern hate look like? How does antisemitism evolve? And how can individuals respond in a way that is thoughtful, informed, and effective?

Chosen For What? is brought to you by the Foundation for Genocide Education, a Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring that every student understands the history and lessons of the Holocaust and other genocides. To learn more about their work, or to make a donation, please visit GenEd.org.