Clive Sinclair (2) (1948–2018)

Traditional diplomacy analyzes the reasons of state that motivate action on the international stage. Psychiatrist Volkan instead looks at how people view events through their ethnic-group psychology. In his outlook, ethnic groups share a common culture (religion, history, creation myth), a "chosen tragedy" (when the group was victimized by others), and a "chosen glory" (when the group prevailed). These events can continue to affect relations with another group for generations. Through this framework, Volkan analyzes such conflicts as those in the former Yugoslavia, Cyprus, and Israel/Palestine. Finally, he applies the analysis to terrorist groups. In each case, he seeks to explain why the conflict persists, defying resolution. Well thought out and documented, this work will appeal to specialized collections.… (more)