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Letters to the Editor: Antisemitism Definition, Ancient Diets, and Remarkably Chill Babies
Table of Contents
Here’s a selection of letters published in The Guardian recently:
Rethinking the IHRA Definition of Antisemitism
Readers continue to debate the complexities surrounding the definition of antisemitism. One correspondent proposes a strikingly simple choice to the widely-used, and often contested, International Holocaust remembrance alliance (IHRA) definition.
Rosalind Clayton,writing from London,suggests: “Antisemitism is hostility towards Jews as Jews.” Just seven words, she argues, offering clarity and avoiding the potential for misinterpretation inherent in more elaborate definitions. Clayton points to a recent Guardian article (Letters, 29 July) highlighting growing rejection of the IHRA definition amongst Jewish staff in Scottish universities, suggesting a need for a more universally accepted approach.
The World’s Oldest Baby and a Mother’s Viewpoint
A heartwarming story about the birth of a baby conceived from an embryo frozen in 1994 has sparked a lighthearted response from a reader.Toby wood, from Peterborough, commented on the report (Report, 31 july) with a simple, yet poignant observation: “‘He is so chill,’ says the mother… I’m not surprised.” This playful remark captures the wonder and perhaps a touch of irony surrounding this remarkable medical achievement.
A interesting historical tidbit regarding culinary practices has emerged in response to a recent article on Neanderthal diets.
Lorna Bushell, writing from Lichfield, references Joan Clibbon’s Cooking the British Way, which quotes Daniel Defoe describing how Stilton cheese was traditionally served “thick with mites and maggots,” consumed with a dedicated spoon. This provides a historical parallel to the recent scientific findings (Neanderthals were not ‘hypercarnivores’ and feasted on maggots, scientists say, 25 July) suggesting Neanderthals also consumed insects, challenging previous assumptions about their dietary habits.
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