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Building Quote by Philip Gourevitch

“Genocide, after all, is an exercise in community building.” quote by Philip Gourevitch
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“Genocide, after all, is an exercise in community building.”

Philip Gourevitch

About This Quote

Source Book: We Wish to Inform You That We Are Leaving the Country, by Philip Gourevitch, 2013

Genocide is portrayed as a twisted form of social cohesion, where shared violence unites perpetrators and victims in a horrific community.

In simple terms: Genocide creates a horrific, forced community through shared violence.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and prevent the perverse bonds of violence.

Themes

genocide community violence social cohesion

Mood

somber reflective serious

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • conflict zones
  • policy making
  • humanitarian aid
  • education on atrocities

Key Concepts

human rights collective trauma

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does violence reshape social ties?
  • What prevents communities from turning violent?
A Different Perspective

The analogy may oversimplify complex causes.

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