A review by klb72
The Politics of Suffering: Indigenous Australia and the End of the Liberal Consensus by Peter Sutton

2.0

I read this book for book club, otherwise would not have chosen it as, while I am concerned about the plight of indigenous communities in Australia, I have sadly placed this issue in the 'too hard' basket. Reading this book has definitely re-engaged me in the topic, however, I can't help but feel it is ultimately in Sutton's 'too hard' basket too, as he has much to say about what doesn't work, without providing much hope as to what does work. Symbolic reconciliation (the apology, the bridge walk etc) is described as decent, but possibly harming as reinforces the divide - us and them; practical reconciliation in some respects is tarred with the same brush. Sutton points out irreconcilable differences, but then seems to argue for same treatment. Aarrrggghhh! Sometimes I felt he was very much of one view and critical of others. But I then read a transcript of him appearing on Q&A and he wasn't like that at all. Plus, the guy has lived and worked with indigenous communities for decades, speaks at least three indigenous languages. He's hardly the bad guy, and sure knows more than me on this issue. Still got me hot and bothered. Where is that silver bullet that will solve all this?

It will certainly make for interesting discussion at book club...