War

A Crime Against Humanity

Clarion Rating: 4 out of 5

Vivo tackles the weight of war without coming across as heavily idealistic, arguing rather convincingly about the legality of war.

War: A Crime Against Humanity is a thorough inspection into the history of war, its effects on humanity, and how we can overcome those guttural instincts for violence and find enduring peace on a global scale. Roberto Vivo examines the tendency for mankind to carry out reprehensible damage to one another on a large scale. Through what are essentially four separate essays sharing a thematic vein, Vivo examines the history of war, times of extended peace, and how wars play out around the globe.

Vivo’s focus is on humanity at large, and how war does nothing positive for the advancement of society. He does not simply wax poetic or preach of a harmonious societal ideal. Vivo tackles the weight of war without coming across as heavily idealistic, arguing rather convincingly about the legality of war. The author declares, without wavering one inch, that war is a heinous, immoral, and illegal action.

Why do countries go to war at all? It’s a deep and difficult question to tackle. In doing so, Vivo points out that 90 percent of war victims are civilians. This basis alone, in Vivo’s view, is enough to prove that it is an illegal action against innocent bystanders. Vivo discusses innovative paths in seeking a shared peace. He posits war as an idea that one day will be seen as a failure or mistake, on par with slavery, racism, and torture. He paints a dream where massive acts of violence are seen as barbaric actions of generations past. He does so by appealing directly to the mind, but perhaps he could use a bit more of an appeal to the heart.

Vivo argues in a very compelling and extremely convincing fashion. However, the thesis may be better served with more of an emotional connection with personal, individual examples. The book raises challenging, complex threads of thought that then go untouched. These could be intertwined with more personal stories. Vivo makes an appeal to humanity, but leaves that human side out of his evidence.

The author’s argument is compelling, intelligent, and savvy. He makes an appeal to logic and reason, and he makes a lot of sense. Vivo undoubtedly accomplishes his goal, and does so with clarity and wonderful language.

This book will appeal to a diverse audience, from progressive political thinkers to young college students who want to delve into meaty material with immense depth. Furthermore, those inclined toward philosophy and humanities will find a compelling argument to dissect.

Reviewed by Ron Watson

Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book and paid a small fee to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. Foreword Reviews and Clarion Reviews make no guarantee that the publisher will receive a positive review. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

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