Commentary
Supporting the need for young readers to engage with this book are some striking statistics. In his initial chapter discussing the Oct. 7 attacks on Israelis, Kirsch highlights a significant generational divide, noting that while the majority of Americans favored Israel over Hamas, the 18-24 age group was evenly split. This division underscores the confusion surrounding settler colonialism that Kirsch aims to address, stemming from a redefinition and erosion of political language. Much of his work focuses on unraveling these complexities through historical analysis.
Kirsch outlines various forms of colonialism, ranging from administrative roles in colonies like India and Vietnam to settler-dominated territories such as Algeria, Rhodesia, and South Africa. He then contrasts these with settler colonialism in the Anglosphere nations like Australia, Canada, and the United States, where European settlers established permanent settlements without a clear homeland to return to.
The core belief of settler colonialism is that it is an ongoing structural state perpetuated through language, attitudes, and systems that sustain colonial violence indefinitely. Kirsch draws parallels between this mindset and the Puritan concept of original sin, emphasizing the goal to foster a perpetual discontent within society. Settler colonialism rejects concrete policy changes in favor of narrative destabilization, ensuring a continuous state of unrest.
Kirsch also highlights the contradiction within settler colonialism’s broad scope and narrow outcomes, as well as its reliance on guilt-driven narratives rather than authentic indigenous knowledge. He critiques the movement’s strict definitions and exclusions, showing how it alienates potential allies and reinforces division.
Kirsch’s perspective is influenced by both European romanticism and indigenous knowledge. Settler colonialism faces challenges in practical implementation, especially in countries like Canada, Australia, and the United States. Israel, however, presents a unique situation where the settler population may face expulsion. The possibility of Israelis leaving or being eradicated fuels settler colonialist ideology. The concept of genocide is redefined to fit this ideology, despite not aligning with traditional definitions. Kirsch’s work sheds light on this new discourse. Collin May, a senior fellow with the Aristotle Foundation for Public Policy, shares his insights on the topic. His views are his own and do not necessarily represent those of The Epoch Times.
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