Joel Martin Halpern Books

Before the former Yugoslavia was torn apart by wars, its inhabitants coexisted peacefully. This collection explores the transformation from neighbors to enemies, aiming to uncover the underlying factors that drove these communities apart in hopes of fostering future coexistence. Contributors examine political cartoons, psychiatry, the arts, visual media, and law, providing diverse perspectives on the Yugoslav conflicts. The focus is not solely on political events but on how values, attitudes, and identities evolved during this tumultuous period. This volume transcends recent journalistic narratives, ensuring its relevance for years to come. Originating as a special issue of the Anthropology of East Europe Review, many contributors have revised their chapters, with new additions, including discussions on the recent Kosovo war. The essays cover the entirety of former Yugoslavia, highlighting the complexity and diversity of ethnic relations throughout its history. Contributors include notable scholars such as Mart Bax, Brian C. Bennett, Nikolai Botev, and many others, each bringing unique insights into the intricate tapestry of Yugoslav society and its conflicts.