New book challenges popular views on settler colonialism and Middle East conflict

In a soon-to-be-released book Adam Kirsch takes on the hot-button topic of settler colonialism focusing on its ideological impact rather than historical facts. The 160-page work (coming out 08/2024) examines how young educated Americans view this concept and its effect on current events

The author points to reactions after last years Hamas attack on Israel showing how the term settler-colonial became a key talking point. He noticed a concerning trend: many groups used this concept to explain complex events

For many academics and activists describing Israel as a settler colonial state was a sufficient justification for the Hamas attack

The concept has deep roots going back to mid-60s when Israeli left-wing group Matzpen first applied it to Zionism. Today its used in various contexts:

• Chinese policies in Tibet and Xinjiang
• Indian approach to Kashmir
• Indonesian actions in Irian Jaya
• Moroccan presence in Western Sahara
• Turkish settlements in northern Cyprus

Kirsch argues that modern use of settler-colonialism focuses mainly on Israel and America - both seen as permanently wrong due to their creation against indigenous peoples wishes. The author thinks this view is too simple; making land acknowledgments and calls to decolonize everything more symbolic than practical

His analysis of Israel-Palestine situation differs from standard colonial comparisons. He says Israel didnt eliminate local population like other colonial projects but created a complex co-existence situation. Yet he admits this dont make Palestinians losses less real

The book suggests that solving todays conflicts needs both colonial history understanding and recognition of current national rights. Its not enough to pick one side - real solutions need balance between addressing past wrongs and accepting todays realities