Violence in War and Peace: An Anthology : Book Review

In her book, "Violence in War and Peace," Nancy Scheper-Hughes offers a captivating examination of the profound connections between violence, power, and social order. Drawing from her extensive fieldwork experiences across several regions of the world, the author presents a compelling analysis of the different manifestations of violence in both times of conflict and tranquility.

A notable aspect of Scheper-Hughes' work is her challenge of the conventional understanding that violence is solely a byproduct of war. She asserts that violence is deeply embedded within social structures, inequalities, and power dynamics. By delving into the normalization and perpetuation of violence in everyday life, Scheper-Hughes shines a light on its underlying causes and impacts on society.

The book explores a range of case studies, encompassing diverse contexts such as Brazilian favelas and political unrest in Ireland. Through these captivating examples, the author illustrates how violence operates on various levels, from individual interactions to systemic structures. She emphasizes the significant role that institutions, like the police and military, play in perpetuating and sometimes even justifying violence.

A striking strength of the book lies in Scheper-Hughes' empathetic approach towards her subject matter. Instead of presenting violence as a simple dichotomy of perpetrators and victims, she delves into its complexities and ambiguities. This nuanced perspective challenges readers to critically examine their own assumptions and beliefs about violence and its underlying causes.

In conclusion, "Violence in War and Peace" offers a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the multi-faceted nature of violence in society. Through her extensive research and engaging writing style, Scheper-Hughes provides a valuable resource for anyone seeking to comprehend the origins, manifestations, and consequences of violence in both times of conflict and peace.

What are readers saying?

"Violence in War and Peace" by Nancy Scheper-Hughes has received a mixed response from readers. The book delves into the intricate nature of violence, examining its manifestations across different cultural, social, and historical contexts.

Some reviewers have commended the book for its comprehensive analysis and thought-provoking insights. They appreciated the author's use of diverse case studies, which included ethnographic research from various regions around the world. Readers found the book to be a valuable resource for gaining a comprehensive understanding of violence, whether in times of war or during periods of relative peace.

On the other hand, some readers found the book to be excessively academic and dense. They critiqued the heavy use of jargon and complex theories, which made it challenging to engage with the material. These reviewers believed that the author could have presented the information in a more accessible manner, making it suitable for a broader audience.

A number of reviewers also observed that the book placed a strong emphasis on structural violence, examining how systemic inequalities contribute to perpetuating violence in society. They appreciated the author's attention to often overlooked forms of violence, such as poverty, discrimination, and environmental degradation.

However, a few readers felt that the book lacked a clear and cohesive argument. They expressed frustration with the fragmented structure, as it seemed to jump between different case studies and concepts without a unifying thread. Despite the wealth of content, these reviewers struggled to follow the main argument throughout the book.

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