Contents: Preface 1. Introduction 2. Civilization and Peace 3. Civilization and War 4. Civilization and Savagery 5. Civilization, War, and Terror 6. Us and Them at War 7. Civilizations at War? Bibliography Index
Brett Bowden, Associate Professor of History and Political Thought, University of Western Sydney, Visiting Fellow, The Australian National University and University of New South Wales at the Australian Defence Force Academy
‘This book may well suit every reader. It covers a very broad topic
by taking a closer look at the relationship between civilization
and war. Brett Bowden offers in fewer than 210 pages much of what
one needs to reflect on the largely neglected relationship between
civilization and war. As is the case with any good book, this one
raises more questions than answers and offers through numerous
chapter notes and its bibliography the opportunity for readers to
explore further the many topics addressed. The writing style makes
it possible to reach an audience broader than just academic.
Although the book is physically small in size, the creation of a
single synthesis of ideas makes it worthwhile for anyone who
wishes to approach, with the critical distance required, the
important issues of the relationship between civilization and
war.'
*Bruno André Giraudon, Journal of Conflict Management*
‘Bowden raises many salient points in his book. War in all its fury
certainly remains a persistent feature of human relations. The
amounts of money societies devote to war preparation demonstrate
the high priority placed on violent activity. Certainly, the
ongoing violence in Iraq, Syria, and Nigeria show the persistence
of war despite international efforts to contain such conflicts.
Bowden's observations clearly remain poignant for today's
world.’
*The Historian*
‘Civilization and War is an exceptionally erudite and timely
meditation on the close relationship between civilization, progress
and war in modern political thought and policy from the
Enlightenment to the war on terror. It is a fitting complement to
Dr. Bowden’s path-breaking study, The Empire of Civilization
(2009).’
*James Tully, University of Victoria, Canada*
‘Civilization and War addresses a concern of all thinking persons
in elegant language with erudition to match. Bowden’s readers will
profit by stretching their minds, learn much to mull over and
discuss with their friends.’
*William H. McNeill, University of Chicago, US*
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