Cruelty: Historical and Contemporary

Abstract

In this chapter the facts will serve tacitly as both commentary and explanation. Neither expressions of horror nor of repugnance are needed to give weight to the facts, and there is no need for moralistic reprobation. Instead it is enough initially for reader reaction to remain individual, everyone imposing his own pauses as the need arises so that what is presented has an opportunity to work on the mind: at times to evoke graphic images, at others to engage reflection and self-criticism, in order to modify any vague or inaccurate impressions by means of a stronger, clearer and more resolute organisation. The first moral probings at the end of the chapter may serve as a sensitivity test for some, but only for some; for others they may be largely superfluous.