Examining Genocides is an attempt to understand events that seems to defy explanation. Jasinski (Univ. of Wisconsin-Oshkosh) takes a semi-legal perspective in his analysis, determining that genocide can occur only when there is proper means, motive, and opportunity. The window of opportunity consists of two elements—conditions in which scapegoating becomes advantageous and there is a collectivity available for scapegoating. However, opportunity alone is not enough for genocide to occur. After opportunity arises, there must be an intentional decision to exploit the opportunity, usually made by the political leaders of the country. Finally, the means to commit genocide must be within the control of the political entrepreneurs. After proposing these elements to genocide, Jasinski uses several cases of genocide to examine whether they follow the means, motive, opportunity trifecta. Jasinski’s material is interesting...Advanced students and scholars will find this work of interest. Summing Up: Recommended. Graduate students through faculty.

Choice Reviews

Lucidly written and cogently argued. Jasinski so perceptively identifies the forces at play that have led to the most heinous crimes of our era.

Shay Pilnik, Executive Director of the Nathan and Esther Pelz Holocaust Resource Center of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation