Cruelty or Humanity: Challenges, Opportunities and Responsibilities

by Stuart Rees

Overview

Cruelty has long been a feature of states’ domestic and foreign policies but is seldom acknowledged. Governments mouth respect for human rights yet promote discrimination, violence and suppression of critics.

Documenting case studies from around the world, distinguished academic and human rights activist Stuart Rees exposes politicians’ cruel motives and the resulting outcomes. Using his first-hand observations and insights from international poets, he argues for courageous action to support non-violence in every aspect of public and private life for the survival of people, animals and the planet.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781447356981
Publisher:	Bristol University Press
Publication date:	10/14/2020
Edition description:	First Edition
Pages:	232
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.00(d)

About the Author

Stuart Rees is Professor Emeritus at the University of Sydney and a human rights activist in several countries. He is regarded as one of Australia’s most consistent campaigners for justice.

Table of Contents

Foreword by Richard Falk

Introduction: Towards a Theory

Perpetrators and Victims

Values, Attitudes, Behaviour

Explaining Causes

Cruelty as Policy

Humanitarian Alternatives

Cruel or Compassionate World-yet

Humanity on a Bonfire

Language for Humanity

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

"A sobering account of a disease that inflicts unimaginable pain on all living things. Stuart Rees courageously gives it its proper name ‘cruelty’, brilliantly identifies its causes and effects, and with erudition and compassion points the way to a healthier future." Joseph Camilleri, La Trobe University

"It is no exaggeration to say that the survival of humanity will be determined by decisions that must be made without delay. The wise and perceptive words in this inquiry into our condition and our fate are a wonderful guide to confronting and overcoming the severe challenges that are imminent." Noam Chomsky, The University of Arizona

“A unique work of stunning breadth and insight, outlining the innumerable cruelties practiced by state and non-state actors, while illuminating a more hopeful path for our common humanity through courage and the eternal wisdom of poetry.” Melissa Parke, UN Expert, former Federal MP and Minister for International Development, Australia

Editorial Reviews

"Cruelties promoted by policies are often ignored. This book theorises the notion of cruelty in all its forms, from direct violence to a political economy of cruelty. I loved this book." Punam Yadav, UniversityCollege London

"Stuart Rees’s deeply humane and moral book documents and analyses historical state-sanctioned, global violence and cruelty, while quoting international poems offering compassionate voices of humanity. A compelling, disturbing, inspiring book." Robert S. White, author of Pacifism in English Literature

“In his evocative and unflinching study, Stuart Rees shows us how ‘national interest’ rhetoric often enables outrages upon human dignity. He reminds us not to abandon the victims of state power or to play games with their fate.“ Clinton Fernandes, University of New South Wales

From the Publisher