Genocide and the Politics of Memory

“Hirsch’s book serves as a valuable point of departure for an examination of some of the major issues of Holocaust interpretation.” — American Historical Review

“Provides both a lucid and original account of why genocide occurs and a vision of how it can be prevented, first by political means, and, in the longer term, by a transformed system of education.” — Roger W. Smith, College of William and Mary

“Herbert Hirsch writes poignantly on memories, the manipulation of memory, and the myths, hatreds, and language constructed around memories that make genocide possible over and over again. This is an unusual and creative explanation of the inner and outer battle between humanity and the readiness to demolish human life that both individuals and the governments that lead us must master. It is a touchingly literary work and at the same time is well grounded in social science thinking. This work is recommended not only for students in political and social science, but also for advanced seminars in philosophy and critical issues.” — Israel W. Charny, Institute on the Holocaust and Genocide