Cruelty or Humanity

"Cruelties promoted by policies are often ignored. This book theorises the notion of cruelty in all its forms, from direct violence to a political economy of cruelty. I loved this book." Punam Yadav, University College London

"Stuart Rees’s deeply humane and moral book documents and analyses historical state-sanctioned, global violence and cruelty, while quoting international poems offering compassionate voices of humanity. A compelling, disturbing, inspiring book." Robert S. White, author of Pacifism in English Literature

“Stuart Rees’ “Cruelty or Humanity” should be read and re-read by everyone and be in every personal, local, school, university, state and national library.” Countercurrents.org

“In his evocative and unflinching study, Stuart Rees shows us how ‘national interest’ rhetoric often enables outrages upon human dignity. He reminds us not to abandon the victims of state power or to play games with their fate.“ Clinton Fernandes, University of New South Wales

“Cruelty or Humanity is of a work motivated by deep compassion. Rees never loses sight of the human element of human rights violations, nor does he ever seem numbed to the pain he so carefully documents. The book stands as a testament to the humanity he urges us to embrace.” Australian Outlook

"A sobering account of a disease that inflicts unimaginable pain on all living things. Stuart Rees courageously gives it its proper name ‘cruelty’, brilliantly identifies its causes and effects, and with erudition and compassion points the way to a healthier future." Joseph Camilleri, La Trobe University

"It is no exaggeration to say that the survival of humanity will be determined by decisions that must be made without delay. The wise and perceptive words in this inquiry into our condition and our fate are a wonderful guide to confronting and overcoming the severe challenges that are imminent." Noam Chomsky, The University of Arizona

“A unique work of stunning breadth and insight, outlining the innumerable cruelties practiced by state and non-state actors, while illuminating a more hopeful path for our common humanity through courage and the eternal wisdom of poetry.” Melissa Parke, UN Expert, former Federal MP and Minister for International Development, Australia

Stuart Rees is Professor Emeritus at the University of Sydney and a human rights activist in several countries. He is regarded as one of Australia’s most consistent campaigners for justice.

Foreword by Richard Falk

Introduction: Towards a Theory

Perpetrators and Victims

Values, Attitudes, Behaviour

Explaining Causes

Cruelty as Policy

Humanitarian Alternatives

Cruel or Compassionate World?

Humanity on a Bonfire

Language for Humanity