Edward Said Articles

Finding Forster

The antiliberal defenders of civilization—resisting the Ground Zero mosque—are wrong. Liberalism still offers the best hope for combating extremism.

On War and Choice

It has long been said that there are wars of necessity and wars of choice. But enemies always adapt, especially in our world of terrorists, failing states and delinquent regimes. Every war is a war of choice.

Grasping the Nettle

As strange as it may seem, now is the best time to push for peace in the Middle East.

An Empire, If You Can Keep It

An empire is functionally distinct from a mere great power. If the United States adopts an imperial vocation, it will need to learn new ways to manage its national security challenges.

The Transformation of National Security

The Bush Administration's National Security Strategy is based on five critical redefinitions of international politics--and not a moment too soon.

Suffering

David Rieff's frustrations show in his effort to make sense of post-Cold War humanitarianism.

The Ground and Nature of Human Rights: Another Round

The true source of human rights in dispute--the debate continues.

The Asymmetry of Pity

Oslo failed because the Palestinian side has taken no responsibility for having helped cause the conflict, and has seen itself above any need to make concessions in order to end it.

Human Nature and Human Rights

"Human rights" as understood today bear little relation to what it means to be human; but that does not faze their advocates.

Two Sides of the Same Coin

Communism and fascism, cousins in disrepute.

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May 26, 2012