Shocking Behavior of Western Democracies
The war on the Gaza Strip has raised many critical questions about the actions of Western democracies towards the ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people. It is shocking to see nations that claim to defend human rights and freedom sliding into support for the extermination army committing brutal massacres. They deny what is happening and even restrict freedom of expression, banning phrases and symbols calling for freedom for Palestine.
Discovering the Reality of Western Democracies
The war in Gaza has given us an opportunity to rediscover the reality of Western democracies.
Two recently published books, "Rethinking Democracy" and "Critique of the World - Rethinking the Modern Human Reality" by Hossam Shaker, shed light on this crisis. These books provide a critical perspective on the contradictions and unruliness of Western democracies.
The Limited Scope of Vision
The ongoing war of annihilation against Gaza is a current event that many people are unaware of. The author believes that the scope of vision is not enough for modern nations to fully understand the situation and its consequences.
Rethinking Democracy
In "Rethinking Democracy," Hossam Shaker offers unusual views on democracy and its applications in European and Western countries. The book explores the shortcomings and dilemmas of democratic experiences, such as political fluidity, the crisis of representative democracy, and the concentration of influence in Western democracies. It also addresses the exclusion of certain populations from democracy based on nationality or citizenship. The book even touches on the paradox of ancient democracies fearing the rise of democracy in other countries.
Freedom of Expression
One interesting chapter in "Rethinking Democracy" focuses on freedom of expression in European democracies. The author explores the limitations and restrictions placed on this freedom, as well as the spread of authoritarian tendencies and censorship systems. Despite the critical analysis, the author emphasizes the importance of proposing reform alternatives from within democracy itself.
Criticism of the World
In "Criticism of the World," Hossam Shaker delves into rethinking modern human reality. The book examines aspects of modernity and seeks to discover contradictions and failures. It combines social, historical, philosophical, cultural, and psychological views to help readers understand the world from new perspectives.
Both books provide insightful and critical perspectives on the crisis of Western democracies and the modern human society that allows genocide to occur. They are part of a series of critical pamphlets published by the "Arab Family Foundation."
According to the author, our vision is limited because we tend to focus only on ourselves and exclude others who are different from us. This narrow perspective prevents us from seeing the bigger picture and understanding the true costs of war.
The Modernist Imagination
The author explores the concept of the "modernist imagination" and its flaws. He explains that sometimes, modernist thinking prioritizes certain values without considering the context or other important values. This can lead to biased judgments and unfair practices.
The modernist imagination often justifies unjust actions by wrapping them in values and principles. This affects individuals, society, and even the state.
Modern Brutality
The author introduces the idea of "modern savagery" and how it differs from traditional brutality. Modern savagery operates differently, using technical or human intermediaries to achieve its goals. It manipulates the international system and prioritizes its own interests.
Unlike traditional brutality, modern brutality can be characterized by a reluctance to act. This means that even though it may not be as visibly violent as traditional brutality, its effects can be just as harmful.
The Negative Side of Modern Savagery
The author suggests that Western policies regarding the war in Gaza demonstrate a form of "negative savagery." This refers to the failure to take action or use influence to stop the war, despite having the power to do so. This inaction can have devastating consequences.
The author concludes by giving an example of a ship that refuses to save a sinking boat because it is carrying people who are considered undesirable. This act of reluctance is a form of negative savagery that can lead to tragic outcomes.
