Discrimination, unjust economic policies and violent regimes continue in the 21st century. This book exposes politicians' cruel motives and the resulting outcomes. The book begins with an overview of the role of cruelty in politics, in the design and implementation of state policies and in non-state responses. Cruel acts and policies are worldwide, though the United Nations has set prohibitions on cruelty which represent global standards. If truths about worldwide cruelties become evident, the elimination of such practices should become a key consideration in any future crafting of policies an ... More

Discrimination, unjust economic policies and violent regimes continue in the 21st century. This book exposes politicians' cruel motives and the resulting outcomes. The book begins with an overview of the role of cruelty in politics, in the design and implementation of state policies and in non-state responses. Cruel acts and policies are worldwide, though the United Nations has set prohibitions on cruelty which represent global standards. If truths about worldwide cruelties become evident, the elimination of such practices should become a key consideration in any future crafting of policies and in the advocacy of values which influence political cultures. Advocacy of humanitarian alternatives to cruelty would depend on the spirit of universal human rights, challenges to oppressive uses of power, and the promotion of policies to address social and economic inequalities. Understanding cruelty can be made easier by theory about patterns which persist irrespective of differences between countries and cultures. Through empirical analysis, human stories and poetic commentary, the book identifies non-destructive exercise of power, courageous public action and compelling humanitarian alternatives as the key to achieving a future in which dignity and equality flourish.