Imagined Threats: Demographic Conspiracy Theories, Antisemitism, and the Legacy of the 2018 Pittsburgh Synagogue Attack

On October 26th, ICSR and the Program on Extremism at George Washington University will host a joint launch event for our latest report “Imagined Threats: Demographic Conspiracy Theories, Antisemitism, and the Legacy of the 2018 Pittsburgh Synagogue Attack”, by ICSR Research Fellow Julien Bellaiche. He will be in discussion with ICSR Co-Director and chair Alexander Meleagrou-Hitchens.

This date marks one day before the fifth anniversary of the deadliest antisemitic attack in the history of the United States. On October 27th, 2018, Robert Gregory Bowers entered the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and opened fire on worshippers. Eleven people were killed and seven more injured.

This report examines the ideological underpinnings of the attack and its ongoing legacy and influence within extreme-right circles. It highlights the role antisemitism and demographic conspiracy theories played in shaping Bowers’ interpretations and representations of social realities and offers an in-depth insight into the history of these narratives. It also uncovers Bowers’ influence on subsequent attacks and ways in which he continues to be celebrated in extreme-right communities online today.

Registrants will receive an email with dial-in details once their place is confirmed.