Surviving the War in Syria

Main Themes and Topics

"Surviving the War in Syria" by Justin Schon presents a profound exploration of the self-protection strategies employed by civilians during the Syrian civil war. The book challenges the common perception that migration is the primary survival mechanism for those caught in conflict zones. Instead, Schon highlights a variety of strategies that civilians adopt, such as fighting, protesting, collaborating, or hiding. Through thorough qualitative research, he uncovers how civilians decide on specific strategies and the factors influencing these choices. The book provides insights into the complexity of civilian responses to threats in a war-torn region, underscoring narratives of resilience and adaptability.

Writing Style and Tone

Justin Schon employs a scholarly tone while remaining accessible to a general audience interested in conflict studies and Middle Eastern affairs. The writing is precise and well-structured, effectively weaving together empirical data with personal narratives gathered from extensive interviews. Schon's methodology includes a microanalysis approach, which allows for a more nuanced understanding of individual choices and strategies. His ability to convey complex ideas clearly is one of the book's strengths, as it avoids overwhelming the reader with jargon while providing deep insights into civilian life during the civil war.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

In "Surviving the War in Syria," Justin Schon examines the myriad ways in which Syrian civilians have navigated the perilous landscape of civil war. Through fieldwork conducted in Turkey, Jordan, Kenya, and the United States, and over two hundred structured interviews with refugees, Schon provides a comprehensive look into the decision-making processes behind various survival strategies. The book delves into the motivations and opportunities that dictate whether civilians choose to migrate, fight, protest, collaborate with various factions, or conceal their presence. By focusing on these individual and collective responses, Schon sheds light on broader questions of survival in conflict zones, offering new perspectives that could inform future research and policy.