The spectre of an absolute menace that requires absolute eradication binds leader and people in a hermetic utopian embrace, and the individual - always an annoyance to totality - ceases to exist.
In Philip Gourevitch's book, the idea of a united front against a perceived absolute threat creates a strong bond between leaders and the populace. This dynamic suggests that when individuals are seen as obstacles to a cohesive society, their existence becomes secondary to the greater goal of societal purity and safety. The fear of a menace can drive people to support extreme measures that deny individual rights and humanity.
This concept...