Redefining Genocide : Settler Colonialism, Social Death and Ecocide

In this highly controversial and original work, Damien Short systematically rethinks how genocide is and should be defined. Rather than focusing solely on a narrow conception of genocide as direct mass-killing, through close empirical analysis of a number of under-discussed case studies – including Palestine, Sri Lanka, Australia and Alberta, Canada – the book reveals the key role played by settler colonialism, capitalism, finite resources and the ecological crisis in driving genocidal social death on a global scale.

A provocative rethinking of how one of our world’s most disturbing aspects should be defined in the modern age, Redefining Genocide will be essential reading for all students and scholars of genocide studies.

“Redefining Genocide is an incisive, bold, and illuminating exploration of the close links between genocide, colonialism, and ecocide. With flair and insight, it addresses the vulnerability of humanity in the perilous age of the Anthropocene.”
John Docker, author of The Origins of Violence: Religion, History and Genocide

“Short’s discussion of genocide, ecocide and colonialist exploitation is delivered with clarity and intellectual insight. It is both an important reminder of some nearly forgotten histories of inhumanity and a warning about future dangers to the planet.”
Nigel South, University of Essex

“An important, path-breaking book. It expands genocide studies into disciplines and concerns that reach far beyond the academy. Policy-makers and activists, as well as scholars troubled by the genocidal potential and local impacts of global developments, must urgently engage with its arguments.”
Tony Barta, La Trobe University