Notes on Monsters

Monsters. They're not just creatures of folklore or cinema. Sometimes, they are ideas, ideologies, or institutions that, over time, become problematic. Through the guidance of Antonio Gramsci and Friedrich Nietzsche, let's delve into the evolving perceptions of Zionism and the State's role in shaping societal narratives.

Gramsci's observation that "The old world is dying, and the new world struggles to be born: now is the time of monsters" rings particularly true today. Societal shifts often come with turbulence, and in the midst of change, certain beliefs or structures can be viewed as 'monstrous.'

Take Zionism, for instance. A political movement initially aimed at establishing a national homeland for the Jewish people, its implementation has had profound consequences for Israelis and Palestinians. As awareness grows, many are beginning to perceive Zionism not as a shield for the Jewish diaspora but as a force detrimental to both communities. The 'monster' here isn't a single group of people but an ideology that, in its practical application, has resulted in division and suffering.

Nietzsche's caution that "Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster" warns us about the dangers of confronting powerful ideas or institutions without self-awareness. In the context of the Israel-Palestine discourse, it's a reminder to dissect the situation without succumbing to biases or overarching generalizations. In its pursuit of the "monster Hamas," the Zionist State has now escalated to genocide, where the mass murders of children and civilian tragedies are visible in real-time on our phones.

This brings us to the State. Across the globe, the power structures of nation-states often act in ways that prioritize preservation over people. The 'State'—whether it's Israel or the United States —shows us who is the real monster, enforcing or perpetuating harmful ideologies and causing suffering to its people and its perceived adversaries.

As perceptions shift and more people recognize the problematic aspects of Zionism and US Imperialism, there's hope for a more nuanced dialogue and solidarity work among those who have been cast as monsters by the nation-state. The true challenge lies in identifying these real monsters and understanding their origins and political ideologies. This ensures that those who stand against such monsters don't inadvertently become what they oppose. In this light, our objective isn't simply to find peaceful resolutions but to actively dismantle systems of oppression that rely on creating 'monsters' to justify their actions. Remember, in every story, understanding the role of monsters is the key to societal transformation.