Meaning: Albert Jay Nock, an American libertarian author and social critic, is the mind behind the quote, "Someone asked me years ago if it were true that I disliked Jews, and I replied that it was certainly true, not at all because they are Jews but because they are folks, and I don't like folks." This quote is often misunderstood and taken out of context, leading to confusion and controversy. To truly understand the meaning behind this statement, it is important to delve into Nock's background, his views on society, and the context in which this quote was made.

Albert Jay Nock was known for his sharp and often controversial viewpoints on society and politics. Born in 1870, he grew up in a time of great social and political change in the United States. Nock was a staunch individualist and believed in the power of the individual over the collective. He was critical of the growing influence of the state and believed that society should be organized around voluntary cooperation rather than coercion.

The quote in question reflects Nock's general disdain for the collective and his emphasis on the individual. When Nock stated that he disliked Jews not because of their ethnicity but because they are "folks," he was expressing his broader misanthropic tendencies. Nock was known for his skepticism of mass movements, collective action, and the conformity of the masses. His dislike of "folks" was a rejection of the herd mentality and the lack of critical thinking that he believed characterized society.

It is crucial to understand that Nock's statement was not an expression of anti-Semitism, as it is sometimes misconstrued. Nock's criticism was directed at the general population, and he did not single out any particular group based on their ethnicity or religion. His dislike of "folks" was a reflection of his deep-seated disillusionment with society as a whole, rather than a specific animosity towards any particular group.

In Nock's view, individuals should be free to pursue their own interests and live according to their own values, without interference from the state or the collective. He believed that true progress and civilization were driven by the efforts of independent and thoughtful individuals, rather than by the masses. This perspective is evident in his quote, as he emphasizes his dislike for "folks" in general, rather than singling out any specific group.

Nock's quote invites us to reflect on the nature of society and the individual's role within it. While his views may be controversial and challenging, they offer a thought-provoking critique of the collective mindset and the conformity that often characterizes human behavior. By emphasizing the importance of the individual over the collective, Nock challenges us to consider the implications of blind conformity and the erosion of individual autonomy in society.

In conclusion, Albert Jay Nock's quote about his dislike for "folks," including Jews, should be understood in the context of his broader misanthropic tendencies and his emphasis on the value of the individual. While his views may be provocative and challenging, they offer a unique perspective on society and the role of the individual within it. Nock's quote serves as a catalyst for reflection and critical thinking about the nature of society and the importance of individual autonomy.