In the intense war of words over the Israel-Gaza war, a particular phrase has popped up repeatedly.
At protests, on fliers and in some mainstream publications, it is common to see Israel described — or more likely, assailed — as a “settler-colonial” state.
The concept of settler colonialism originates in academia, where its use has surged over the past two decades, whether in case studies of particular places or sweeping master narratives that purport to explain everything since Columbus.
The term “settler colonialism” may combine two words that are very familiar.
But in combination, the term can land as a moral slander — or worse.
Persons:
—, Israel
Locations:
Israel, Gaza, academia, Columbus