Frantz Fanon and the Psychology of Oppression

This book is expensive but it is worth it. Bulhan explicates Fanon's theory of oppression and violence from the perpsective of the oppressed as well as the oppressor. Observations and perspectives of oppression have generally come through rational thinking - here Bulhan opens the door of Fanon's mind and heart to show us what the experience of oppression and violence feels like and the damage it does to the psyche of the oppressed. Violence is redefined as "any relation, process, or condition by which or a group violates the physical, social, and/or physical integrity of another person." This definition is then explained from the personal, institutional and structural levels where violence is an often sanctioned and legitimatized activity.The chapter on the Master Slave Paradigms provides powerful insights into the development of the inferiority/superiority complexes. This chapter will take you past the socioeconomic causes of slavery and oppression into the human cause. And there is much more. If you want a deeper understanding of the causes and consequences of oppression, read this book.

This book is a must read. Bulhan takes the reader on a tour beginning with a "Quest for a Paradigm", to suggestions for practical solutions. The index is also packed with valuable references that will educate the reader and give a more in-depth understanding of Bulhan's and Fanon's thinking. The most interesting and captivating chapter is the one on the 'Master and Slave Paradigms.' This is not a one time read. This book book must be studied over and over due to the in-depth analysis and research that it possesses. For anyone interested in psychology and is looking for new answers to the issues facing us today, this is a must have book.

This book is an in depth look into the complexities of oppression including the master/slave relationship.