Who is the author of 'Politicide'?

The author of 'Politicide' is Baruch Kimmerling.

What are the main themes in 'Politicide'?

The main themes in 'Politicide' include Human Rights, Political Philosophy, Global Conflict, International Relations, Politics and Current Affairs.

What genre is 'Politicide'?

'Politicide' is categorized as Politics and Current Affairs.

What is the main argument presented in 'Politicide' by Baruch Kimmerling?

The main argument presented in 'Politicide' by Baruch Kimmerling is that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is characterized by a systematic and intentional dehumanization and marginalization of the Palestinian people. Kimmerling uses the term 'politicide' to describe the processes by which state mechanisms and policies seek to undermine the existence and rights of the Palestinian population. He analyzes the socio-political structures that facilitate this process, arguing that this form of governance serves to maintain control and dominance by the Israeli state while effectively erasing Palestinian identity and sovereignty.

How does Kimmerling define the term 'politicide' in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

In 'Politicide', Baruch Kimmerling defines the term 'politicide' as the systematic and strategic undermining of a people's political rights and identity, particularly in the context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He argues that this concept goes beyond mere physical violence or genocide; rather, it involves the deliberate erasure of a group’s political existence and aspirations. Kimmerling elucidates how policies and actions by the Israeli state can be interpreted as attempts to delegitimize Palestinian political claims and rights, ultimately leading to the marginalization of the Palestinian identity and existence.

What historical events does the book explore to illustrate the concept of politicide?

In 'Politicide,' Baruch Kimmerling explores historical events primarily related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict to illustrate the concept of politicide. He delves into the systematic violence and policies against the Palestinian people, particularly during events such as the Nakba (the 1948 Palestinian exodus), the Six-Day War in 1967, and various military operations and policies that have affected Palestinian autonomy and rights over decades. Kimmerling analyzes how these events contribute to the ongoing marginalization and erosion of Palestinian identity and political existence, framing them within the broader understanding of politicide as a strategy to destroy a people through political means.

What are the key themes that Baruch Kimmerling addresses in 'Politicide'?

In 'Politicide,' Baruch Kimmerling explores several key themes, including: National Identity and Conflict: The book examines the complexities of national identity, particularly in relation to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and how these identities are shaped by historical narratives and political struggles. Violence and Resistance: Kimmerling addresses the dynamics of violence, both state-sponsored and grassroots, and the various forms of resistance that emerge in response to oppression. The Concept of Politicide: A central theme is the concept of 'politicide,' which Kimmerling defines as the systematic undermining of a group’s national and cultural identity, leading to their marginalization and potential eradication as a collective entity. The Role of Power and Memory: The text delves into how power is wielded and how memory is constructed and manipulated in political discourse, affecting both personal and collective identities. Ethics of Conflict: Kimmerling raises ethical questions about the legitimacy of actions taken in the name of national security and the moral implications of policies that dehumanize individuals based on their identity.

In what ways does Kimmerling suggest that politicide impacts both Israeli and Palestinian identities?

In 'Politicide,' Baruch Kimmerling suggests that politicide impacts both Israeli and Palestinian identities by illustrating how the violent and systematic marginalization of one group affects the self-perception and collective identity of both communities. For Palestinians, the experience of politicide contributes to a shared narrative of victimhood and resistance, fostering a collective identity that is defined by their struggle for recognition and statehood. Kimmerling discusses how the ongoing conflict and the denial of rights lead to a fragmentation of Palestinian identity, creating a sense of diaspora and dislocation among Palestinians both within the territories and in exile. Conversely, for Israelis, the act of politicide shapes national identity by reinforcing a perception of existential threat, which is often justified through security narratives. Kimmerling argues that this leads to a militarized and exclusionary identity, where the fear of losing national integrity results in the justification of harsh policies that alienate Palestinians. This, in turn, creates a cycle of denial that contributes to a limited understanding of the opposing identity, further entrenching divisions and perpetuating a culture of conflict. Overall, Kimmerling's examination of politicide highlights the intertwined fates of both identities, suggesting that the resolution of one is inextricably linked to addressing the grievances and aspirations of the other.

Politicide

In 'Politicide', Baruch Kimmerling presents a thought-provoking examination of the complex interplay between politics and violence in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He introduces the concept of 'politicide', a strategy that systematically undermines the existence of a group, leading to a chilling narrative of state-sponsored aggression. Kimmerling's incisive analysis reveals the deep-rooted socio-political factors fueling decades of turmoil and suffering. The book challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about power, identity, and the human cost of conflict. With eloquent prose and compelling arguments, 'Politicide' is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the intricacies of contemporary geopolitics.

By Baruch Kimmerling

Published: 2003

""In the struggle for identity and survival, the lines between victim and perpetrator blur, revealing the tragic complexities of human existence and the relentless quest for meaning.""

Politics and Current Affairs International Relations Global Conflict Human Rights Political Philosophy

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A compelling history of Sharonâe(tm)s rise to power, and a forensic account of his crimes against the Palestinians.

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Key Points from Politicide

In "Politicide," Baruch Kimmerling presents a compelling argument that frames the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as a form of 'politicide,' which he defines as an organized effort to eradicate not only the political rights but also the cultural and national identity of the Palestinian people. Kimmerling provides several key examples to underscore his thesis, such as the historical contexts surrounding the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 and subsequent military operations that have resulted in significant loss of Palestinian life and land. He cites events like the Nakba (Catastrophe) when hundreds of thousands of Palestinians were displaced, demonstrating how this initial act of dispossession set the stage for systemic erasure of Palestinian identity. This notion of politicide is significant because it reframes the conflict from a mere territorial battle to one where existence itself is at stake, stressing the urgency for international recognition of Palestinian rights. By contextualizing the conflict within broader themes of colonialism and nationalism, Kimmerling illuminates the cyclical nature of violence that emerges when a group is denied their identity and existence, leading to ongoing suffering and unrest. Thus, his argument not only critiques Israeli policy but also calls for a deeper understanding of historical injustices, making a powerful statement about the importance of human rights in achieving peace.

About the Author

Baruch Kimmerling

Baruch Kimmerling (1939-2018) was an influential Israeli sociologist and author known for his scholarly work on Israeli society, nationalism, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He authored several notable works including "Zionism and Territory: The Socio-Territorial Dynamics of a National Movement" and "The Invention and Decline of Israeliness: State, Society, and the Military." Kimmerling's writing is characterized by a critical and analytical approach, blending sociological insights with political commentary, which invites readers to reflect on complex social dynamics and historical narratives.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Baruch Kimmerling
Published: January 2003
Publisher: Verso
ISBN: 1859845177
Language: English
Pages: 252
Genres: Human RightsPolitical PhilosophyGlobal ConflictInternational RelationsPolitics and Current Affairs

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“"In the struggle for identity and survival, the lines between victim and perpetrator blur, revealing the tragic complexities of human existence and the relentless quest for meaning."”

Politicide

By Baruch Kimmerling

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Politicide

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Metaphors We Live By

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