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Dangers of stereotypes: Exhibition at the TU Berlin highlights anti-Semitism
Exhibition opening “#FakeImages” at the TU Berlin on May 26, 2025: Focus on stereotypes and visual propaganda.
Dangers of stereotypes: Exhibition at the TU Berlin highlights anti-Semitism
On May 26, 2025, the Technical University of Berlin will open an important exhibition entitled “#FakeImages – recognizing the dangers of stereotypes”. This exhibition is being shown for the first time in Germany and is under the curatorial direction of the Kazerne Dossin Museum in Mechelen, Belgium. Important personalities such as the collector Arthur Langerman and the Chancellor of the TU Berlin, Lars Oeverdieck, will be present at the opening.
The basis of this exhibition is the collection of visual anti-Semitics by Holocaust survivor Arthur Langerman, which was handed over to the TU Berlin in 2019. The aim is to show the devastating effects of visual propaganda and stereotypical images, which often promote hateful images and address society's responsibility. The exhibition receives special support from the Society of Friends of the TU Berlin e.V.
Insights into the Langerman Collection
The artifacts mentioned illustrate a wide range of anti-Semitic stereotypes. This includes negative portrayals of Jews as:
- Bettelarme Lumpenhändler
- Kapitalistische Bonzen
- Bolschewistische oder US-amerikanische Agenten
- Drückeberger
- Mächtige Weltverschwörer
- Lüsterne Kinder- und Frauenschänder
- Gefährliche Tiere, Ungeziefer und Krankheitserreger
These motifs are based on a historical context that ranges from Christian anti-Judaism to culturally and socially based hostility towards Jews to modern, biologically argued racial anti-Semitism. Among other things, the collection also documents the persistent spread of hatred of Jews, which underlines the urgency of comprehensive historical education, prevention and remembrance work.
Digital distribution of anti-Semitic stereotypes
What is particularly alarming is the fact that classic anti-Semitic stereotypes are becoming more widespread in the digital space. Platforms such as Instagram and Facebook serve as distribution channels for Sturmer caricatures and quotes from the “Protocols of the Elders of Zion,” which are presented in the form of memes and videos. This content connects historical sources with current events, creating the impression of authenticity and giving new relevance to old narratives.
An example of these events is the connection between Jewish people and economic crises. During the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous posts have been spread that supposedly blame Jews for economic difficulties. Vaccine-related memes often made questionable connections, accompanied by hashtags like #newworldorder.
The spread of anti-Semitic stereotypes also results in secondary anti-Semitism, which is characterized by defense of guilt and reversal of perpetrator and victim. Examples include statements like “The Jews are using the Holocaust to put pressure on us.” Such statements are common on social media and illustrate the appalling level of misperception and prejudice that continues to exist.
The opening of the “#FakeImages” exhibition will not only be marked by a short speech by Arthur Langerman and other high-profile guests, but also by a personal tour of the exhibition. The tour is carried out by the collector himself and Dr. Angelika Königseder. Due to the limited number of participants, registration is required by May 22, 2025 at the latest.
On the same day that the exhibition opens, Arthur Langerman will also be awarded the honorary senatorship of the TU Berlin, an official recognition for his outstanding commitment and valuable work in the field of remembrance culture.
The upcoming exhibition and the accompanying activities offer an important platform to address the topic and promote critical reflection on the spread of anti-Semitism in the digital age.