DICTIONARY OF GENOCIDE
by Luis J. Gonzalez
Library Journal Reviews
April 15, 2008
Totten, Samuel & Paul R. Bartrop. Dictionary of Genocide . 2 vols.
Greenwood . 2008. 688p. bibliog. index. ISBN 978-0-313-32967-8 .
$199.95. REF
The first in its class, this dictionary offers a comprehensive overview
of the field of genocide studies. In over 600 entries, the dictionary
provides information on the definition, theories, history, prevention,
intervention, and denial of genocide. Covering everything from the
UN’s definition of the term to the mechanisms employed when genocide
occurs, the book traces the history of genocide and offers detailed
information on genocide from around the globe. The events covered range
from the Armenian genocide in the early 20th century to the most recent
genocides in Rwanda, Srebrenica (Bosnia), and those currently taking
place in Darfur. Totten and Bartrop, both university professors and
experts on the topic of genocide, have several previous publications
to their credit, including Century of Genocide: Critical Essays and
Eyewitness Accounts, Teaching About Genocide: Issues, Approaches,
and Resources, and The Prevention and Intervention of Genocide:
An Annotated Bibliography . BOTTOM LINE This work feels more like
an encyclopedia than a dictionary, as it lacks cross-references (a
major drawback), and most entries are significantly longer than one
would expect in a typical dictionary.
That said, it is well written and easy to follow. It could be used
as a complement to the existing major books and encyclopedias on
genocide, such as Ben Kiernan’s The Specter of Genocide (Cambridge
Univ., 2003) and Dinah Shelton’s Encyclopedia of Genocide and Crimes
Against Humanity (Macmillan, 2004). Recommended for all public and
academic libraries. [Available electronically through Greenwood
Digital Collection.]-Luis J. Gonzalez, Hunter Coll. Libs., New York
From: Emil Lazarian | Ararat NewsPress
