This is a stunning book which proposes a new aesthetico-political theory of civic life. It offers a brilliantly written and hugely imaginative re-posing of the classic political questions of community, belonging, rights and responsibilities. An outstandingly original book by a leading scholar in his field.

- Arthur Bradley, Lancaster University,

Michael Shapiro has long been one of the most significant thinkers of the relation between theory, the international, and politics. Through nuanced readings of film and literature concerning trauma and grief, belonging and exclusion, he reflects on his maxim that “ethical reflection becomes possible when negotiation with difference rather than security is the project” A book that speaks powerfully to our contemporary moment.

- Stuart Elden, University of Warwick,