by Sanford Cloud Jr.

About the author: Sanford Cloud Jr. is the president and chief executive officer of the National Conference for Community and Justice, formerly known as the National Conference of Christians and Jews, an organization dedicated to fighting prejudice and racism.

Appealing to hate, especially in times of economic insecurity, is a time-tested insidious tactic increasingly being mainstreamed in modern American dialogue. Joe McCarthy did it, to serious effect. The Neo-Nazis and white supremacists do it—witness the Montana Freemen. Certain religious leaders do it, and gain media attention. And, recently, some of our politicians have done it. This effective technique drives wedges between fellow workers and neighbors, and alienates us from people we do not even know. At worst, it inspires hatred and violence.

The Modus Operandi

The modus operandi involves a leader appealing to...