Power-Under by Steve Wineman
Steve Wineman looks at the political implications of trauma in nonviolent resistance, suggesting that trauma has it's effects on both the politics of the left and the right. The left projects trauma onto systems and structures and push for social change using rage. The right projects trauma onto individuals and groups from minorities, thereby scapegoating them.
Trauma can also paralyse people and groups into inaction, creating greater suffereing. Trauma also has effects on the internal workings of social movements, usually by turning inwards and sidewards in power-plays and mistrust. Understanding trauma is important, then, for nonviolent movements to develop skills and tools for dealing healthily with trauma, and ensuring that nonviolent change is possible without treating others violently. Wineman also looks at the "interpenetration of oppression", that is the ability of an individual or group to simultaneously act as victim and perpetrator (eg, black men suffering racial and economic oppression using violence as a means to gain power over family and community).
In the Footsteps of Gandhi by Colleen ...
A gathering of interviews with a number of "spiritual activists" who have drawn strength and strategy from the work and writings of Mahatma Gandhi. These interviews are from a range of backgrounds including the Dalai Lama, Caeser Chavez, Joanna Macy, Thich Nhat Hanh, Joan Baez and Desmond Tutu. A strong theme of "love your enemy" comes through as these activists have come to see that no matter how much one seeks to be part of the solution, there is always more to do and ways in which we can change. Humanizing others, then, is a key factor in developing a spirituality of nonviolence. Another theme includes "sustaining the gaze" on human suffering. How do we maintain compassion for both oppressed and oppression in the face of overwhelming violence, hatred and suffering?
My Experiments With the Truth by M.K. Gandhi
The classic autobiography of the "father of active nonviolence". Gandhi reflects on his life and the way in which "satyagraha" developed as a spiritual and strategic response to British rule, and to all forms of violence.
The Last Week by Marcus Borg and Dominic Crossan
A theological reflection on the last week before Jesus is crucified. The authors use the Gospel of Mark as their text, seeking the meaning of the text and attempt to address misconceptions and misunderstandings that have developed over the ages.
Actually, I started reading this a while back and stopped mid-way. I'm picking it up again.
The Algebra of Infinite Justice by Arundathi Roy
A collection of hard-hitting political essays on economic violence in India and post September 11, 2001. Her insights are disturbing, challenging and frightening. One comes away from the book wondering what on earth can be done to stem the flow of hate and violence.
Healing Anxiety Through Meditation by John McConnell
A new book by the author of "Mindful Mediation". McConnell draws from the Four Noble Truths of Gautama Buddha, suggesting they are a helpful framework for dealing with anxiety. McConnell then helps the reader to use "vipassana meditaion" or mindful meditation techniques to address their own inner anxiety.
