The Nuremberg Interviews: An American Psychiatrist's Conversations with the Defendants and Witnesses - Leon Goldensohn - 4 Stars

[Jason]

What a fascinating collection of selected excerpts of interviews Goldensohn, an American Physiatrist, had with Nazi leaders and middle management on trial and serving as witnesses during the Nuremburg Trials.

So much of the interviews were fascinating and enlightening. Most downplayed their role in the concentration camps and mass killings while putting the majority of the blame of Hitler, Himmler, and Heydrich who were all conveniently dead. I enjoyed trying to dissect those just trying to save their skin from those that were genuine and... less accountable. The majority do seem to be narcissists and extreme delusions of grandeur.

In all my reading and studying, I have missed or not fully comprehended the vitriol the Nazi's had towards Communists and how they used the terms Jews and Communists and Russians interchangeably. This led me to a deeper dive into the immigration of Russian Jews into Germany and other European countries, especially after WWI

My favorite interview was with Hans Fritzsche and hearing his thoughts about propaganda. Though he does try to pass the blame, he also makes some strong and deep comments as warnings against propaganda.

Much stated by the defendants can be taken with a grain of salt as they were on trial for their lives. Each interview lead me into learning more about each person and their involvement in decision making.

Hearing the arguments of "I was following orders" and "what would you have me do" and Goldensohn's dismissal of this reasoning. Of course, this is before the Milgram Experiment proving the extreme degrees that people will go when following orders.

After also reading Operation Paperclip: The Secret Intelligence Program that Brought Nazi Scientists to America, also gives a jaded view of "justice" that was sought.

Definitely enjoyed the experience though at times felt really depressed and disgusted listening to these men.