My colleagues at the strategy, national security, and military affairs journal The Bridge published my review today of some recent works by Ajit Maan, who brings a background in post-structuralist literary theory to her work in counter-terrorism. The post includes an extended close analysis of a recent ISIS video to highlight the care Daesh takes in producing and editing its propaganda (warning: the video is very graphic). Maan’s work points the way toward how high-level literary theory can help guide the use of “soft power” on behalf of democratic, post-colonial, and multi-cultural ideals—a fascinating and important blend of the philosophical and the practical.
Great, great, great!!!
LikeLike
So interesting, Mark (and so interestingly written too). Thanks for sharing it.
LikeLike
Having a background in post modern philosophy and specifically deconstructionism (Derrida et al….)….and over 10 years in the field embedded in the COIN/CT environment it is encouraging to see that some are looking to address the issue with “asymmetric theory” and “asymmetric approaches”. For sure, CT/COIN benefits from post structural analysis.
LikeLike
Apologies-Correction on my email below
LikeLike
Yes, thanks. I find myself reacting less directly to the challenges around us than some who think they know how and where to focus. This helps me to feel a little more connected.
LikeLike