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Little America: Australia, the 51st State
by Erik PaulAustralia is one of the US's most staunch supporters: Australia has sent troops to Iraq, and is an ally in the 'war on terror'. Australian domestic policy also follows the US economic model, as state industries and services have been privatised. *BR**BR*Erik Paul dissects the relationship between Australia and the US. He explores how Australia has become a key player in maintaining American dominance in South East Asia, and looks critically at the contrast between the Australian wealth and the comparative poverty of surrounding nations. *BR**BR*Examining the influence of neoconservative imperialism on Australia's economic and military strategies, he draws some startling conclusions about future Australian relationships in East Asia, in particular, its relationship with China.
Blood and Religion: The Unmasking of the Jewish and Democratic State
by Jonathan CookThis is an account of the Jewish state's motives behind building the West Bank wall, arguing that at the heart of the issue is demography. Israel fears the moment when the region’s Palestinians become a majority.*BR**BR*The book charts Israel’s increasingly desperate responses to its predicament including military repression of Palestinian dissent on both sides of the Green Line; accusations that Israel's Palestinian citizens and the Palestinian Authority are secretly conspiring to subvert the Jewish state from within; a ban on marriages between Israel’s Palestinian population and Palestinians living under occupation to prevent a right of return ‘through the back door’; the redrawing of the Green Line to create an expanded, fortress state where only Jewish blood and Jewish religion count.
How to Read Marx's Capital (How to Read Theory)
by Stephen ShapiroCapital Volume I is essential reading on many undergraduate courses, but the structure and style of the book can be confusing for students, leading them to abandon the text. This book is a clear guide to reading Marx's classic text, which explains the reasoning behind the book's structure and provides help with the more technical aspects that non-economists may find taxing.*BR**BR*Students are urged to think for themselves and engage with Marx's powerful methods of argument and explanation. Shapiro shows that Capital is key to understanding critical theory and cultural production.*BR**BR*This highly focused book will prove invaluable to students of politics, cultural studies and literary theory.
China From the Inside Out: Fitting the People's Republic into the World
by Ronald C. KeithThis book champions China's domestic politics, which will be essential in shaping the country's role in the world.*BR**BR*Many books claim to aid our understanding of China. They assume that it is destined to follow the model of the US; war, empire and unilateralism. However, China From the Inside Out highlights the China's domestic perception of it's own 'rise'. *BR**BR*Critically analysing Chinese policy which straddles the paradox between 'socialism' versus 'capitalism with Chinese characteristics', this book looks at the struggle to create a rule of law and foster human rights through a new stage of democratic reform.
Overcoming Zionism: Creating a Single Democratic State in Israel/Palestine
by Joel KovelIsrael is an incorrigible human rights offender because, by discriminating against Arabs, it is guilty of 'state-sponsored racism' argues Joel Kovel. Like apartheid South Africa, the best hope for peace in Israel is to return to the idea of a one-state solution, where Jews and Palestinians can co-exist in a secular democracy.*BR**BR*Kovel is well-known writer on the Middle East conflict. This book draws on his detailed knowledge to show that Zionism and democracy are essentially incompatible. He offers a thoughtful account of the emotional and psychological aspects of Zionism that helps us understand the relationship between ideology, culture and political processes. *BR**BR*Ultimately, Kovel argues, a two-state solution is essentially hopeless as it concedes too much to the regressive forces of nationalism, wherein lie the roots of continued conflict.
North Korea on the Brink: Struggle For Survival
by Glyn Ford Soyoung KwonNorth Korea's development and testing of nuclear weapons made headlines in the Western media, but is the country really a threat to the rest of the world? *BR**BR*This accessible introduction examines the country's history and focuses on whether the threat is realistic or exaggerated by the US in order to gain international support for the controversial missile defence system. It also shows what the EU can do to engage with North Korea and counterbalance the US policy of isolationism.*BR**BR*North Korea is struggling to survive in the face of US threats of pre-emptive action and regime change by developing its own Weapons of Mass Destruction. For the EU, the challenge is to resolve this stand-off, providing North Korea with sufficient security guarantees to enable them to give up their nuclear weapons, and enough assistance to enable the economic and social reforms that the country so desperately needs.
Your Right to Know: A Citizen's Guide to the Freedom of Information Act
by Heather BrookeHave you ever wanted to know:*BR*- Which doctor has the best operation success rate in your health trust?*BR*- If MI5 has a file on you?*BR*- The actual number and type of crimes that happen in your street?*BR*- Which streets are targeted by parking attendants in your area?*BR*- Which buildings have failed their fire safety inspections?*BR**BR*The public had no right to most of this information - until now. In 2005 the Freedom of Information Act came into force giving the British public a legal right, for the first time, to access information from more than 100,000 public authorities. But in order to take advantage of this new right you first have to know who holds the information and how to get it. This guide gives you the tools you need to get the information you want.*BR**BR*This edition comes with a new foreword by Ian Hislop.
Beyond the Wire: Former Prisoners and Conflict Transformation in Northern Ireland
by Peter Shirlow Kieran McEvoyThis book provides the first detailed examination of the role played by former loyalist and republican prisoners in grass roots conflict transformation work in the Northern Ireland peace process. It challenges the assumed passivity of former prisoners and ex-combatants. Instead, it suggests that such individuals and the groups which they formed have been key agents of conflict transformation. They have provided leadership in challenging cultures of violence, developed practical methods of resolving inter-communal conflict and found ways for communities to explore their troubled past. In analysing this, the authors challenge the sterile demonisation of former prisoners and the processes that maintain their exclusion from normal civic and social life. *BR**BR*The book is a constructive reminder of the need for full participation of both former combatants and victims in post-conflict transformation. It also lays out a new agenda for reconciliation which suggests that conflict transformation can and should begin 'from the extremes'. *BR**BR*The book will be of interest to students of criminology, peace and conflict studies, law and politics, geography and sociology as well as those with a particular interest in the Northern Ireland conflict.
Nomads, Empires, States: Modes of Foreign Relations and Political Economy, Volume I
by Kees van der Pijl*Shortlisted for the Deutscher Memorial Prize 2008* *BR**BR*How we think about international relations theory needs to change. Kees van der Pijl argues that by making the "nation-state" the focus of international relations, the discipline has become Euro-centric and a-historical and that theories of imperialism and historic civilisations, and their relation to world order, have been discarded. With more than half the world's population living in cities, with unprecedented levels of migration, global politics is present on every street corner. The 'international' is no longer only a balance of power among states, but includes tribal relations making a comeback in various ways. *BR**BR*Outlining a new approach to IR theory, the book makes a case for a re-reading of world history in terms of foreign relations, and shows what it reveals about both our past and our future.
Iran on the Brink: Rising Workers and Threats of War
by Andreas Malm Shora EsmailianWhile the world keeps its eyes riveted on Iran's nuclear programme, the Islamic Republic has gone through a crisis of its own. This book shows how soaring unemployment and poverty has given way to social protest. A new labour movement has come to the fore. Although strikes are banned, workers are beginning to organise and underground networks are challenging the rule of the mullahs from within.*BR**BR*The authors offer a unique portrait of the social upheaval, why it is happening and where it may take the country. Following the fall of reformism, the rise of Ahmadinejad and the recent outbursts of ethnic violence, this book provides rare insights into the inner contradictions of the Islamic Republic. *BR**BR*The second part of the book deals with the international issues facing Iran - in particular the nuclear question, Iran's oil reserves and the serious threat of invasion. It is a sobering account of the realities of life in Iran, and the threat that war poses to the democratic aspirations of the Iranian people.
Exodus From Empire: The Fall of America's Empire and the Rise of the Global Community
by Terrence E. PauppThis book lays out a comprehensive vision for a new world order based on cooperation between the developing world and leading Left countries in Latin America. *BR**BR*Arguing that the ravages of corporate capitalism are unsustainable, Terrence E. Paupp presents an energetic critique of the problems of empire, and looks ahead to a global countermovement against the IMF and US hegemony.
Into the Long War: Oxford Research Group International Security Report 2006
by Paul RogersIraq stands on the edge of civil war. As sectarian killings escalate, and troops become more deeply entrenched, is there any prospect of an exit strategy? Into the Long War examines events in Iraq since May 2005 and how they impact on other countries including Afghanistan, Iran and the wider Middle East. *BR**BR*Bringing together the extensive analysis of the renowned Oxford Research Group, the book charts a tumultuous period in the conflict, including a wider international perspective on the terrorist attacks in London and Sharm al Sheik, and an assessment of how US public opinion has changed as the war drags on.*BR**BR*Rogers offers a clear and compelling account of an invasion that was meant to take a matter of weeks - and that now threatens to engulf an entire region for many years to come.
Women's Rights: Small Guides to Big Issues (Small Guides to Big Issues)
by Geraldine TerryWhat are the global challenges of the twenty-first century? All over the world, women and girls are being denied their social, economic, political and civil rights, Geraldine Terry, seeks to expose this structural discrimination across a range of areas where it occurs.*BR**BR*Denial of women's equality occurs in education, access to public services, in reaping benefits from trade and in domestic violence. Increasingly too, the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Africa has become linked to the denial of rights to women. By looking at positive examples of women acting to transform inequalities and oppression by asserting their rights, Terry argues that sponsoring women's rights is not only a moral issue but also an efficient way to pursue poverty reduction.*BR**BR*The Small Guides to Big Issues series de-bunks myths and raises questions about the global economic and political system and how it works. They are designed for campaigners and activists, students and researchers, and anyone interested in looking behind the headlines. Produced in partnership with Oxfam, each book provides an informative and thought-provoking guide to current trends and debates, and what needs to happen in order to end poverty and injustice.
Government of the Shadows: Parapolitics and Criminal Sovereignty
by Eric WilsonThis book uncovers the activities of clandestine governments. It explores how covert political activity and transnational organised crime are linked - and how they ultimately work to the advantage of state and corporate power. *BR**BR*Using a variety of case studies, from the mafia in Italy to programmes for food and reconstruction in Iraq, the authors illustrate that parapolitical structures are not 'deviant', but central to the operation of global governments. *BR**BR*The creation of this parallel world economy, the source of huge political and economic potential, entices states to undertake new forms of regulation, either through their own intelligence agencies, or through the more shadowy world of criminal cartels.
The New Latin American Left: Utopia Reborn (Transnational Institute)
by Patrick BarrettIt was widely predicted that the end of the Cold War would lead to a prolonged period of US-friendly neo-liberal hegemony in Latin America. In fact, the left has re-emerged as a serious political actor. Today, leftist or 'progressive' political forces are in government in nine Latin American nations, and social movements continue to challenge neo-liberalism in several other countries.*BR**BR*This book is a comprehensive study of the wide variety of leftist governments, parties and movements in the region, including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Uruguay and Venezuela.*BR**BR*It is essential for students of Latin American politics, political theory, social movements and international relations.
Do It Yourself: A Handbook For Changing Our World
by The Trapese CollectiveDo you really want to change the world? If the answer is YES, then this book shows you how.*BR**BR*Ethical consumerism is now big business. But leading a sustainable and truly radical life encompasses a whole variety of things that challenge the mainstream. This book shows how we can make real changes to the way we live. In simple steps, it describes how you can create sustainable and equitable ways of living that can help transform not just your own life, but the culture around you.*BR**BR*The book weaves together analysis, stories and experiences. It combines in-depth analytical chapters followed by easy to follow 'How to Guides' with practical ideas for change. Taken together, these small steps can move us towards taking back control of our lives from governments and corporations.
Economics Transformed: Discovering the Brilliance of Marx
by Robert AlbrittonIs Marx relevant? Bringing to life the classic concepts in Marx's economic thought, Robert Albritton shows that he offers great potential for study. Deeply critical of the way economics is taught and studied today, this is a textbook that will appeal to anyone who wants a forward-thinking approach to the discipline that's free from the constraints of neo-classical orthodoxy.*BR**BR*Taking up key aspects of Marx's work, including surplus value theory, dialectical reasoning and the commodity form, Albritton highlights their relevance in the modern world - and explains why mainstream economics has been so blind to their revolutionary potential. Written with style and clarity, it is perfect for economics undergraduates.
Cosmopolitan Ireland: Globalisation and Quality of Life
by Carmen Kuhling Kieran KeohaneIreland is going through a period of unprecedented economic and cultural growth and renewal. These changes are due in part to neoliberal policies that have attracted foreign investment. *BR**BR*The globalization of Ireland's economy has had major social consequences. Living standards are rising quickly. Emigration has reversed. Catholicism has been secularized, laws on divorce and sexuality have been liberalized and Ireland has become an urban society for the first time. *BR**BR*But there is stark inequality and social exclusion; epidemics of depression, alcoholism, and obesity; traditional values and community are declining; and there is deep ambivalence towards immigrants. Ireland's economy is globalized, but is Irish society cosmopolitan? Wealth has increased, but has quality of life improved? The authors explore the developments of the last 15 years, capturing the intensity of the debates that make up the new cosmopolitan multi-cultural Ireland.
Global Political Economy: A Marxist Critique
by Bill DunnThis is an ambitious survey of the history and state of the world economy, covering the major upheavals of the capitalist system over the last 100 years.*BR**BR*Bill Dunn provides an original and enlightening explanation of the state of the world economy. He covers all the main aspects of global political economy explaining the theories behind production, trade, finance and relations between rich and poor countries. He also tackles the question of the origin of capitalism, a debate that always proves popular among students and academics. Dunn also includes a critique of alternative perspectives, showing that Marxism still provides the best analytical tools for understanding the global economy.*BR**BR*This comprehensive text is a must for students of politics and economics who are keen to understand how the economy reached its current stage and what the future is likely to bring.
The Politics of Deconstruction: Jacques Derrida and the Other of Philosophy
by Martin McQuillan'In this fine collection a group of distinguished scholars have produced the best book so far about Derrida's politics of the future.'*BR*J. Hillis Miller, Distinguished Research Professor, University of California at Irvine*BR**BR*Jacques Derrida has had a huge influence on contemporary political theory and political philosophy. Derrida's thinking has inspired Slavoj Zizek, Richard Rorty, Ernesto Laclau, Judith Butler and many more contemporary theorists. This book brings together a first class line up of Derrida scholars to develop a deconstructive approach to politics.*BR**BR*Deconstruction examines the internal logic of any given text or discourse. It helps us analyse the contradictions inherent in all schools of thought, and as such it has proved revolutionary in political analysis, particularly ideology critique.*BR**BR*This book is ideal for all students of political theory, and anyone looking for an accessible guide to Derrida's thinking and how it can be used as a radical tool for political analysis.
The Kurds in Iraq: The Past, Present and Future
by Kerim YildizThis new edition of The Kurds in Iraq brings the book fully up-to-date in the light of recent events in Iraq, and the ever-present danger of civil war.*BR**BR*Yildiz explores the impact of occupation and escalating violence. There is an entirely new chapter on Kirkuk, which continues to be of major strategic interest to the various powers in the region. There is also a new chapter on insurgency and sectarianism that examines the motivations behind the insurgency, the tactics that are used, and outlines possible ways to deal with it.*BR**BR*The book is a unique account of the problems that all political groups face in bringing stability to the country, as well as exploring Kurdish links and international relations in the broader sense. It should be required reading for policy-makers and anyone interested in the current position of the Kurds in Iraq.
The Guantanamo Files: The Stories of the 774 Detainees in America's Illegal Prison
by Andy WorthingtonIn 2006, four years after the illegal prison in Guantánamo Bay opened, the Pentagon finally released the names of the 773 men held there, as well as 7,000 pages of transcripts from tribunals assessing their status as 'enemy combatants'. Andy Worthington is the only person to have analysed every page of these transcripts and this book reveals the stories of all those imprisoned in Guantanamo. *BR**BR*Deprived of the safeguards of the Geneva Conventions, and, for the most part, sold to the Americans by their allies in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the detainees have struggled for five years to have their stories heard. Looking in detail at the circumstances of their capture, and at the coercive interrogations and unsubstantiated allegations that have been used to justify their detention. Stories of torture in Afghanistan and Guantanamo are uncovered, as well as new information about the process of 'extraordinary rendition' that underpins the US administration's 'war on terror'. *BR**BR*Who will speak for the 773 men who have been held in Guantanamo? This passionate and brilliantly detailed book brings their stories to the world for the first time.
Anarchy Alive!: Anti-Authoritarian Politics From Practice to Theory
by Uri GordonAnarchist politics are at the heart of today’s most vibrant and radical social movements. From squatted social centres and community gardens to acts of sabotage and raucous summit blockades, anarchist groups and networks are spreading an ethos of direct action, non-hierarchical organizing and self-liberation that has redefined revolutionary struggle for the 21st century.*BR**BR*Anarchy Alive! is a fascinating, in-depth look at the practice and theory of contemporary anarchism. Uri Gordon draws on his activist experience and on interviews, discussions and a vast selection of recent literature to explore the activities, cultures and agendas shaping today’s explosive anti-authoritarian revival. Anarchy Alive! also addresses some of the most tense debates in the contemporary movement, using a theory based on practice to provocatively reshape anarchist discussions of leadership, violence, technology and nationalism. *BR**BR*This is the ideal book for anyone looking for a fresh, informed and critical engagement with anarchism, as a mature and dynamic political force in the age of globalisation.
Culture and Well-Being: Anthropological Approaches to Freedom and Political Ethics (Anthropology, Culture and Society)
by Alberto Corsin JimenezThe concept of well-being has emerged as a key category of social and political thought, especially in the fields of moral and political philosophy, development studies and economics. *BR**BR*This book takes a critical look at the notion of well-being by examining what well-being means, or could mean, to people living in a number of different regions including Sudan, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, India, Sierra Leone and the UK. *BR**BR*The contributors take issue with some of the assumptions behind Western concepts of well-being. They explore what characterises a 'good life' and how this idea has been affected by globalisation and neoliberalism. The book makes a major contribution to social theory by presenting new analytical models that make sense of the changing shapes of people's life and ethical values.
Change in Putin's Russia: Power, Money and People
by Simon PiraniThis is an investigation into the interaction of power, money and people in Russia during the presidencies of Vladimir Putin and Dmitry Medvedev. *BR**BR*Profiling Putin's team, including his security services and pro-market economic 'reformers', Simon Pirani argues that the growth during the oil boom was one-sided. The gap between rich and poor widened. Now the boom is over, this problem has only grown.*BR**BR*As well as explaining Russia's economic trajectory, the book provides a unique account of the social movements that are working against an increasingly authoritarian government to change Russia for the better.