Description
Book Synopsis* This is a new, original social theory of trauma by one of the world s leading social theorists. * Argues that traumas are not merely psychological but collective experiences and that they play a key role in defining the origins and outcomes of critical social conflicts.
Trade Review'Reminds the readers that working through trauma is not merely a matter of resurrecting "burried memories" but creating new ones. In this way, Alexander usefully beckons towards a future of "cosmopolitan peace". It is a dream worth returning to in the 21st century.'
Times Higher Education'A masterpiece of cultural explanation. Alexander powerfully documents the complex effects of trauma and blame in conflicts among groups, in a book that is both readable and fascinating.'
James M. Jasper, CUNY Graduate Center "Exemplary work in illustrating the processes that underlie trauma narrative creation."
Political Studies Review
'Combining theoretical astuteness and empirical sensitivity, Alexander's book is a hugely significant contribution to the understanding of collective trauma, suffering, and memory. It opens up a wealth of new vistas for both cultural sociology and social theory more generally.'
David Inglis, University of Aberdeen
'Already established as a leading scholar of cultural trauma and collective memory, Jeffrey Alexander solidifies his position in this new book. He deepens our theoretical understanding of trauma, expands its relevance through novel comparative analysis, and improves our grasp of its ingredients. I always grade a book on how much it makes me think about new things, and on this count Alexander wins first prize.'
Neil Smelser, University of California, Berkeley
Table of ContentsPreface and Acknowledgements
Introduction
Chapter 1. Cultural Trauma: A Social Theory
Chapter 2. Holocaust and Trauma: Moral Universalism in the West
Chapter 3. Holocaust and Trauma: Moral Restriction in Israel (with Shai Dromi)
Chapter 4. Massacre and Trauma: Nanjing and the Silence of Maoism (with Rui Gao)
Chapter 5. Partition and Trauma: Repairing India and Pakistan
Chapter 6. Globalization and Trauma: The Dream of Cosmopolitan Peace
Bibliography
Notes
