Fear
Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.
Check link for latest rating. ( 4 ratings, 1 reviews)Read More
Fear
Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?
Fear
This must-read new book maps New Zealand's alt-right underworld and unearths the roots of the occupation that ended in a violent protest on the grounds of Parliament.
Speaking after the chaos of the protest that stopped the nation, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told a press conference, 'One day, it will be our job to try and understand how a group of people could succumb to such wild and dangerous mis- and disinformation.'
That day isn't in the future. Mis- and disinformation had been identified as a problem before the convoy to parliament had even been suggested. While that protest looked like something that 'couldn't happen here', things that supposedly couldn't happen here seemed to be happening with alarming frequency. Three years prior, an armed gunman had entered two mosques in Christchurch and taken the lives of 51 worshipers, an event that shocked a country where mass shootings are almost unheard of. A few months later, a New Zealand Defence Force soldier who had founded a far-right group was arrested, and is awaiting court martial, accused of espionage.
We are no longer living in ordinary times, where political violence is unimaginable, and conspiracy theorists are marginal figures whose ideas can be laughed at. How did things get to this point?
Fear: New Zealand's Hostile Underworld of Extremists helps make sense of the tributaries feeding the river of alt-right activism, identifies the main perpetrators, and looks at why New Zealand is susceptible to misinformation, conspiracy theory and fear-mongering.
The story begins by casting light on the seemingly placid waters of New Zealand's social fabric, only to reveal the tumultuous currents beneath. With comprehensive research and detailed narratives, author Byron Clark paints a vivid picture of the individuals and networks at the core of the alt-right movement. From the harrowing timeline of the Christchurch mosque attacks to the unsettling rise of digital hate forums, this book meticulously chronicles how extremist ideologies have permeated national consciousness.
Clark’s investigative prowess is evident as he delves into the minds of those swayed by radicalism, exploring the factors that make individuals vulnerable to alt-right propaganda. Moreover, the narrative doesn't just highlight the problem; it seeks solutions by engaging with experts on deradicalisation, social cohesion, and digital literacy. As readers turn the pages, they'll not only grasp the scale and complexity of the issue but also gain a sense of hope through the practical measures suggested to combat this growing threat.
Fear is not just a book for those interested in politics but for anyone who cares about the social and cultural fabric of New Zealand. It’s an urgent call to recognise and address the forces driving division and unrest in what many consider one of the world's most peaceful nations. Rich with firsthand accounts and professional analyses, this book is essential for understanding the dangerous path New Zealand finds itself on and the steps necessary to steer back towards harmony and rational discourse.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Fear by Byron Clark has received positive feedback for its insightful exploration of the societal impacts of fear-driven politics. Reviewers have commended the author for his thorough research and accessible writing style, which help shed light on relevant contemporary issues. The book is appreciated for its ability to engage readers and provoke thoughtful reflection on the state of modern society.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781775542308
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers (New Zealand)
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 15 February 2023
Country: New Zealand
Imprint: HarperCollins Publishers (New Zealand)
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 24.0mm
Width: 153.0mm
Height: 233.0mm
Weight: 409g
Pages: 336
About the Author
Byron C Clark is one of Aotearoa New Zealand's foremost experts on the far-right and alt-right extremism. He is also an independent video essayist, disinformation researcher and commentator. He lives in Christchurch, New Zealand.
More from Science & Nature
View allWhy buy from us?
Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent specialist on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!
Service & Delivery
Our cozy 200m2 warehouse in Auckland holds over 10,000 books in-stock so you're not waiting for books to arrive from overseas.
Auckland Pick Ups
We're an online-only store but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our warehouse in Hobsonville.
Our Gifting Service
Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.