Genocide: A Comprehensive Introduction

by Adam Jones

Genocide: A Comprehensive Introduction is the most wide-ranging textbook on genocide yet published. The book is designed as a text for upper-undergraduate and graduate students, as well as a primer for non-specialists and general readers interested in learning about one of humanity's enduring blights.Fully updated to reflect the latest thinking in this rapidly developing field, this new edition: Provides an introduction to genocide as both a historical phenomenon and an analytical-legal concept, including an extended discussion of the concept of genocidal intent, and the dynamism and contingency of genocidal processes. Discusses the role of state-building, imperialism, war, and social revolution in fueling genocide. Supplies a wide range of full-length case studies of genocides worldwide, each with an accompanying box-text. Explores perspectives on genocide from the social sciences, including psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science/international relations, and gender studies. Considers ""The Future of Genocide,"" with attention to historical memory and genocide denial; initiatives for truth, justice, and redress; and strategies of intervention and prevention.Written in clear and lively prose, liberally sprinkled with over 100 illustrations and maps, and including personal testimonies from genocide survivors, Genocide: A Comprehensive Introduction has established itself as the core textbook of the new generation of genocide scholarship. An accompanying website (www.genocidetext.net) features a broad selection of supplementary materials, teaching aids, and Internet resources.

Genres: History, Politics, Nonfiction, Textbooks, Reference, International Relations, Academic

680 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

I.B., B.A., M.A., Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Dept. of Political Science
University of British Columbia Okanagan

Executive Director, Gendercide Watch
Senior Book Review Editor, Journal of Genocide Research

Reviews

[Anastasiia Nekrasova · Rating 5 out of 5]

Це, мабуть, найкраще з того, що я читала цього року і точно найпізнавальніше.
Почнімо з того, що це насправді підручник для курсу Genocide studies, але написаний дуже цікаво і легко для сприйняття. Це максимально комплексний аналіз явища геноциду: від самого поняття (точніше підходів до визначення поняття) та геноцидів в історії до психологічних причин вчинення геноцидів, історичної пам'яті, трибуналів та примирення. Більша частини присвячена саме геноцидам в історії, в тому числі тих, які відбувались ще до Голокосту, зокрема винищення корінних народів Америк та Австралії, геноцид вірмен в Османській імперії (який ще досі дається взнаки з огляду на існування криптовірмен). Автор розібрав основні геноциди визначивши основні їх основні передумови та особливості у кожному випадку, а також реакцію(читай бездіяльність) міжнародної спільноти і роль політичних мотивів.

Читати про звірства і людські страждання може бути емоційно важко, але тема геноциду все-таки вартує вивчення. Мене особисто найбільше емоційно похитнув опис геноцидних практик, які застосовувались до жінок, в розділі про гендерні аспекти геноциду (там будьте обережні), але загалом я би сказала, що Адам Джонс в цьому плані дбає про читача і його стиль викладу не спонукає до того, щоб впадати в депресію (хоча це все індивідуально, звісно).

P.S. - ну і актуально. На жаль, актуально зараз для України.

[Rflutist · Rating 5 out of 5]

At long last, I have finished this tome. I read the chapters out of sync, and not all of them, when I was enrolled in the genocide class at NYU. Not all of the chapters were assigned reading, but the book was so absorbing from what I did read, that I thought it would be worth finishing as time permitted.

I didn't know what to expect from taking a class on this topic, but the biggest surprise was that in studying it, I tended to learn the background history of each nation I studied. It has also greatly influenced how I examine and analyze current events, such as those taking place in Syria. As such, here are two quotes from the book, on page 452, which I think are relevant to the Syrian Crisis:

"New wars feature a profusion of actors and agents, often making it difficult to determine who is doing what to whom."

"To lend moral and political legitimacy to activities usually fueled by greed and power lust, new-war actors often play up ethnic and particularist identities. Campaigns of persecution against national and ethnic groups, including genocide, become a standard modus operandi."

The author's book covers every possible aspect of genocide, including the research and discussion of aspects that one might not associate with the topic. It is not speed reading, but it is thorough and the reader will wind up researching the myriad sources quoted, to learn more about the history of a country, and more about the persons involved, whether they perpetuate, or resolve, the heinous actions of genocide.

I cannot say that this is a pleasant topic to study. There were times I had to close the book, or put it down, because I cried. However, after studying this topic, I can definitely say that it shaped and changed my outlook on studying international relations. I have a much more compassionate heart than I would have, before reading this book - and - much more of a heart for people who are internally displaced or suffering from a lack of access to food, water, medical supplies, a bed to sleep in, and peace of mind.

[readorables · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really comprehensive introduction to Genocide. I took his Genocide class for my undergrad. My favourite course throughout my undergrad so far.

[Kirk · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent place to start on an unfortunate topic. It is an inherently interdisciplinary topic, although, unsurprisingly, I still found myself wishing for a bit more historical context regarding the chaptered case studies. Alas, the book is long enough, so I do not think this completely takes away from the work. The most valuable aspect of the book might be the thorough footnoting and extensive bibliographies. Fantastic work by Jones here.

Sadly, considering movements in the world and research in the field over the last few years, this book could use an update with a fourth edition.

[April]

lup

[Oleh · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a direct witness to the ongoing genocide by Russians in Ukraine this book helped me understand a lot of what's, why's and if's. It is a comprehensive work which explains genocide using examples from different parts of the world. I think everyone should read this book and I'm glad it also has a Ukrainian edition, although it was already sold out before I'd even learned about it.

[Eugenia Montiel Aceti · Rating 4 out of 5]

The main book assigned for an undergraduate class at university, named "Genocide, Justice & Reconciliation". It was a great overview of many conflicts that turned into genocides; social perspectives included.

[Aubrey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a fantastic introduction to genocide studies. Jones offers an interdisciplinary view of genocide studies, as well as perpetrator motivations. Explanations of the various forms of genocide and genocidal mass violence are clear and concise. This book is very well organized - each section and subsection are clearly identified, and unfamiliar terminology is addressed and explained as it comes up.

I haven't gone through the whole volume as of yet - I've read the pertinent sections relating to my thesis. That is to say, I've not read any of the case studies outside of the Cambodian case study offered in the book, though I've read and critically analyzed all of the other sections of the book.

Where Ben Kiernan's analysis of the Cambodian genocide in The Pol Pot Regime can get muddled, this book clears up many of the pertinent details. Though not as extensive an analysis, it is exceedingly useful for it's concise explanations and clearing up the details that get lost in an intense, in-depth case study.

Overall, this volume is a great companion to Alex Alvarez's Genocidal Crimes for anyone beginning their studies in genocide, or for anyone who is simply interested in learning about genocide. I would greatly recommend that these two books are read together, though either one is a fantastic source of information that is relevant, sourced, and factually stated.

[Michael Griswold · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let me begin by saying that I wish there didn't have to be books on genocide, but as long as people continue to find ways to hate each other, there will probably be books on genocide and impassioned views from both victims and perpetrators. Jones Comprehensive Introduction to Genocide tries to provide what it's title implies and does a reasonable job. The chapters are quite readable and engaging with easy to read text and gripping black and white photographs. Situated throughout each chapter are these 1-3 pages boxes that outline various conflicts that exist throughout the world today going beyond the scope of the major genocides : Holocaust, Cambodia, Rwanda, Yugoslavia, etc. to ask questions like are Russian actions in Chechnya genocide or China-Tibet for example. Each chapter and text box comes with a list of suggested reading materials allowing the reader to become more informed on the subject covered and make up their own mind. Another thing I liked about this book was the multiple perspective based chapters (sociology, history, political science) because it showed that genocide isn't just a history problem or polisci one, but rather enshrines all of us. The one downside is that it needs an update hopefully the 2010 version can build on the solid 2007 effort.

[spike marlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best books I have read this year. It is easy to read but provide enough detail to be understanding. While long, 602 pages, it is well referenced. It is a scholarly introduction but also written in a populist way. It caused me to think about the inequity in the world. In his conclusion Adam Jones states " meaningful "peace" cannot exist alongside massive inequalities in wealth, health, and education." (p. 601.) I think he has hit it bang on and has written an engaging and thoughtful book outlined what has happened in the past when these types of inequities exist. Adam Johns book is also a call for all of us to become more vocal in fighting against genocidal potential and to redress the wrongs of the past, if for no other reason to "never again" let the mass slaughter of people happen.

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good introductory text. It is very broad in its approach to the topic of genocide, and because of this, it goes into less depth than one might desire. However, an extensive and helpful "further study" section at the end of every chapter will guide the reader in the right direction if they are interested in a particular event or aspect.

[Noreen Zayna Barlas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I use this text for my genocide course and I have found it to be extremely valuable for students learning and understanding the very horrific and complex nature of genocide. For any beginner or introduction course for genocide, I would highly recommend this as a main text or even as a supplemental.

[Esther · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, helpful book. Covers case studies in depth but has a good overview of broader themes of prevention. Like the author's writing style and the fact he is well on the button but not just a dry academic with no heart. Recommend to anyone new to the subject.

[Rachel Niemeyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was one of the hardest books I've ever had to read. Not because of the writing style, but because of the content. If you want a comprehensive study of Genocide, this is the way to go. Read something light afterwards because this will not leave you with much hope for the human race.

[Reichnekov · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is a textbook for class, but it also one of the best books I've ever read. Forms a cohesive narrative to connect various genocides and encourages the reader to ponder their causes and potentially their solutions.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really fantastic introduction to genocide issues, cases studies, and the idea of social justice.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best intro to the subject that I've seen.

[Kat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Introduction to the major and minor genocides of the world.

[Alice · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very comprehensive study of genocide that goes beyond the surface level and goes deep into the reasons why genocides happen.

[Stella Rogers · Rating 3 out of 5]

Realised that I have read this whole book across 10 weeks of my genocide module heheh