National denial, splitting, and narcissism : group defence mechanisms of teachers and students in Palestine in response of the Holocaust

Abstract

Using a combination of historical and psychoanalytical tools, this article explores the national defence mechanisms used by the education system of the Yishuv, the Jewish community in pre-independence Israel, in response to the Holocaust (1943-1948). The article also explores the significance of these responses, as well as their contemporary implications. Three personal defence mechanisms will be identified for the purpose of analysing the reactions of the Israelis as a national group. 'Denial' as a whole is generally associated with the defence of various systems, with 'splitting' and 'narcissism' being two facets of excessive nationalism. The article concludes with contemporary applications of national defence mechanisms and their possible educational uses: community emphasis, educational periodisation, and, above all, recognition of the need to consider national defence mechanisms when planning educational responses to national crises. It is proposed that the educational model presented has wider applications, beyond the case of Israel and the Holocaust.