This slim volume was written in response to the November 2015 Paris attacks and the refugee crisis. For Žižek, Europe is torn between “two versions of ideological blackmail”: to open its doors to the world’s huddled masses fleeing poverty and conflict, or to pull up the drawbridge and let them sort out their own problems. The former approach, favoured by “Left liberals”, would, he argues, “trigger an instant populist revolt” and result in the triumph of anti-immigrant parties. Europe is thus caught in a double bind. Written before the election of Donald Trump and the Brexit vote, Žižek’s analysis is more urgent than ever. He says “western cultural values” (egalitarianism, human rights, the welfare state) should be used as a weapon against the true cause of the refugee crisis: global capitalism. Politics needs to reengage with those drawn to rightwing populism, while all communities need to respect the same cultural norms such as individual freedom and women’s rights. In a future of large migrations, he believes our only hope lies in the “global solidarity of the exploited and oppressed”.
• Against the Double Blackmail: Refugees, Terror and Other Troubles with Neighbours is published by Penguin. To order a copy for £6.79 (RRP £7.99) go to bookshop.theguardian.com or call 0330 333 6846. Free UK p&p over £10, online orders only. Phone orders min p&p of £1.99.
