Rhetoric, Fantasy, and the War on Terror

This book examines discourses mediating the global War on Terror, arguing that they motivate preemptive measures and intrusive domestic security procedures by perpetuating a myth of imminent harm. It explores themes such as selective compassion in the media, the language of war, asymmetrical warfare, weaponized drones, and American exceptionalism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Drawing on psychoanalytic and semiotic perspectives, this comprehensive book delves into the intricate discourses that shape the global War on Terror. It examines a wide range of media, including governmental speeches, legal documents, print and broadcast journalism, and military memoirs, to unravel the underlying motivations and implications of these narratives. The book argues that these discourses are driven by a pervasive myth of imminent harm, which justifies a range of preemptive measures, including war, torture, targeted killing, and intrusive domestic security procedures.

Among the central themes explored in this text are the selective compassion displayed in the mainstream media, the language of war and the sacrificial sublime, asymmetrical warfare and the nostalgia for total war, the use of weaponized drones and just war theory, and the role of American exceptionalism in normalizing endless war. Scholars and students in the fields of cultural studies, psychoanalysis, media studies, rhetoric, critical international relations, international humanitarian law, and ethics will find this book to be an invaluable contribution to their understanding of these complex and pressing issues.

The book's analysis is grounded in a rich blend of psychoanalytic and semiotic theories, which provide a nuanced understanding of the power of language and symbols in shaping public perception and political discourse. By examining the ways in which these discourses construct and perpetuate the myth of imminent harm, the book challenges the assumptions underlying military interventions and domestic security measures. It offers a critical perspective on the ways in which media and popular culture contribute to the normalization of violence and the erosion of human rights.

Furthermore, the book explores the ethical and legal implications of these discourses, raising important questions about the responsibility of governments, media organizations, and individuals in the face of global terrorism. It examines the ways in which the War on Terror has undermined democratic institutions, violated human rights, and perpetuated cycles of violence. The book calls for a more nuanced and ethical approach to counterterrorism, one that prioritizes human rights, international law, and dialogue over military force and surveillance.

In conclusion, this book is a groundbreaking exploration of the discourses mediating the global War on Terror. It offers a comprehensive and critical analysis of the motivations and implications of these narratives, providing a valuable resource for scholars, students, and policymakers alike. By challenging the myth of imminent harm and promoting a more ethical and sustainable approach to counterterrorism, this book contributes to the ongoing debate about the future of international security and human rights.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367554071