Security and Terror

Main Themes and Topics

Security and Terror by Eli Jelly-Schapiro presents a compelling exploration of the intertwined history of colonialism and modernity, arguing that the colonial legacy continues to shape the current geopolitical landscape. At the heart of the book is the assertion that the modern War on Terror is not an entirely new phenomenon but rather a continuation of a long history of colonial practices and philosophy. Jelly-Schapiro deftly explores the political and philosophical genealogies of security and terror, tracing them through historical events from the colonial era to contemporary conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. The book also examines how these themes are depicted in contemporary fiction and theory, highlighting works by authors such as Teju Cole, Mohsin Hamid, Junot Díaz, and Roberto Bolaño.

Writing Style and Tone

Eli Jelly-Schapiro employs a richly interdisciplinary approach in his writing, blending historical analysis with literature and critical theory. The tone of the book is analytical and scholarly, yet accessible to readers interested in understanding the complex dynamics between colonial histories and modern-day security policies. Jelly-Schapiro's meticulous research is evident throughout the text as he draws connections between past and present, engaging the reader in a critical discourse on the continuity of colonial ideologies in shaping contemporary global politics.

Criticism

While Security and Terror is praised for its thorough examination of colonial modernity and its impact on contemporary society, some readers may find the dense theoretical framework challenging. The interdisciplinary nature of the book requires familiarity with both historical events and critical theory. Thus, it may appeal more to an academic audience than to casual readers.

Brief Summary

Eli Jelly-Schapiro's Security and Terror investigates the enduring influence of colonial modernity on contemporary global politics, emphasizing the perpetual War on Terror as an extension of colonial practices. By tracing the historical and philosophical roots of security and terror from the age of colonization to present-day conflicts, the book offers a critical perspective on how historical erasure perpetuates colonial culture. At its core, the book reveals how contemporary fiction and theory reflect and reckon with these enduring colonial narratives.