On Settler Colonialism

Ideology, Violence, and Justice

By: Adam Kirsch

Narrated by: Adam Barr

A prominent public intellectual tackles one of the most crucial political ideas of our moment.

Since Hamas's attack on Israel last October 7, the term "settler colonialism" has become central to public debate in the United States. A concept new to most Americans, but already established and influential in academic circles, settler colonialism is shaping the way many people think about the history of the United States, Israel and Palestine, and a host of political issues.

This short book is the first to examine settler colonialism critically for a general audience. By critiquing the most important writers, texts, and ideas in the field, Adam Kirsch shows how the concept emerged in the context of North American and Australian history and how it is being applied to Israel. He examines the sources of its appeal, which, he argues, are spiritual as much as political; how it works to delegitimize nations; and why it has the potential to turn indignation at past injustices into a source of new injustices today. A compact and accessible introduction, rich with historical detail, the book will speak to listeners interested in the Middle East, American history, and today's most urgent cultural-political debates.

©2024 Adam Kirsch (P)2024 Kalorama

Speaking Truth to Academia

A genuine meditation on violence, history, and humanity. Brilliant conclusion about the contemporary academic pathology of turning hope backwards— as if the past can be redeemed.

A surprisingly balanced perspective on the politics of ‘settler colonialism’.

A well articulated assessment of the cynicism of settler colonialism ideology and how it does more harm than good in its approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Clear and concise

The clearest description of the concept of settler colonialism that I have heard as it applies to the US Canada and Australia, while noting the discrepancies of applying that model to the state of Israel.

Partial explanation of the genocidal trend in anti-Israelism

Kirsch does his best to remain appreciative of the anti-colonial movement while tracing its decline in academic circles to a doctrine of impractable radicalism vis-a-vis America, Canada, and Australia and an apology for the barbarism of Israel's enemies.

Outstanding, articulate corrective to today’s misguided intellectuals

An outstanding intellectual history and analysis of a highly prevalent, but deeply flawed ideology. Extremely highly recommended.