The Genocide in Cambodia

Term Paper # 101044

History > Asian
Psychology

This paper discusses the psychological elements behind the genocide in Pol Pot Cambodia.

1,228 words () | 2 sources | MLA | 2008 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper analyzes the social-psychological influences that dominated Cambodia during the late 20th century. The paper discusses three major causes of genocide; passive bystanders, historical antagonism and victimization and socialization of violence. The paper then shows how the factors that led to the Khmer Rouge rise and eventual deaths of close to three million Cambodians will always impact this country.

Outline:
The Passive Bystander
Historical Antagonism
Victimization and Socialization of Violence
Cambodia Today

From the Paper:

"Ervin Staub is well known for his extended research on the major acts of genocide of the 20th century. Staub not only conducted decade long research studies on the events that occurred during the Khmer Rouge and other authoritarian regimes, he also attempts to explain the social and psychological constructs of each country. In an effort to provide information to prevent the spread of genocide, Staub notes that genocide occurs primarily for 3 major reasons: 1. Passive bystanders, in other words Stoicism 2. Historical Antagonism 3. Victimization and socialization of violence."

Sample of Sources Used:

Staub, Ervin. "Preventing Genocide: Activating Bystanders, Helping Victims and the Creation of Caring." Other Voices: The Journal of Cultural Criticism. 2 (2000): 1-5.
Staub, Ervin. The Roots of Evil. Cambridge University Press. London: 1995.