Tribe
On Homecoming and Belonging
Format:Paperback
Publisher:HarperCollins Publishers
Published:1st Jun '17
Should be back in stock very soon
Sebastian Junger's Tribe examines the struggles veterans face reintegrating into society, highlighting the importance of community and connection in overcoming isolation and PTSD.
In Tribe, Sebastian Junger explores the complex relationship between veterans and the society they return to after experiencing war. Drawing from his extensive background in anthropology, Junger delves into the reasons why many veterans feel alienated and disconnected upon returning home, despite not having seen combat. He posits that the issue lies not with the veterans themselves, but with the modern society that often lacks the close-knit community structures that foster a sense of belonging and purpose.
The author examines historical instances, such as the experiences of American Indian captives who chose to remain with their captors rather than return to their previous lives. This phenomenon highlights the innate human need for connection and the security that comes from living within a small, interdependent group. Junger argues that the modern world's emphasis on individualism and self-sufficiency can lead to feelings of isolation, particularly for those who have faced the camaraderie of military life.
Ultimately, Tribe presents a thought-provoking analysis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the psychological challenges faced by veterans. Junger suggests that to address these issues, society must recognize the importance of communal bonds and work towards fostering environments that promote connection and support. By understanding the experiences of veterans, we can gain valuable insights into combating loneliness and improving mental health across the board.
‘A brilliant little book driven by a powerful idea and series of reflections … I would give this gem of an essay to anyone embarking on the understanding of human society and governance’ Evening Standard
‘An eloquent and thought-provoking book … it could help us to think more deeply about how to help men and woman battered by war to find new purpose in peace’ The Times
‘Fascinating, insightful and built on real and difficult experiences as well as a background in anthropology’ Sunday Times
‘An electrifying tapestry of history, anthropology, psychology and memoir that punctures the stereotype of the veteran as a war-damaged victim in need of salvation. Rather than asking how we can save our returning servicemen and women, Junger challenges us to take a hard look in the mirror and ask whether we can save ourselves … Tribe is a stirring clarion call for a return to solidarity. In advocating a public, shared confrontation with the psychic scars of war, Junger aims to stop trauma burning a hole through individual veterans. Such a collective catharsis might also be our best hope of healing the wounds modern society has inflicted on itself’ Guardian
‘Junger is particularly insightful when he is discussing combat soldiers and the difficulties they experience when returning from war zones … Junger is correct to draw attention to the major faultlines in affluent societies, including the dismantling of a sense of community. A growing proportion of people are suffering from clinical depression, anxiety and chronic loneliness. He rightly observes that wealth is not the route to happiness. Being loved and giving love are fundamental to human happiness and health’ Observer
‘A small, but convincingly argued, book … a good starting point for rethinking the way we live our troubled modern lives’ Daily Mail
‘Lucid and engaging’ TLS
ISBN: 9780008168186
Dimensions: 198mm x 129mm x 13mm
Weight: 140g
192 pages