ON DEMOCRACIES AND DEATH CULTS
By Douglas Murray
Publisher: Broadside
The author of “The War on the West” gives his perspective on the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
Douglas Murray's latest work, "On Democracies and Death Cults: Israel and the Future of Civilization," is a provocative and incisive examination of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with a particular focus on the events surrounding the October 7 massacre. ([bookshop.org](https://bookshop.org/p/books/on-democracy-and-death-cults-israel-and-the-future-of-civilization-douglas-murray/21985955?affiliate=397&ean=9780063437135&next=t&utm_source=openai)) Murray, known for his unflinching critiques of Western society, delves into the ideological chasm between Israel's democratic values and the extremist doctrines of Hamas.
Drawing from intensive on-the-ground reporting in Israel, Gaza, and Lebanon, Murray presents a compelling case that places the latest violence in its proper historical context. ([bookshop.org](https://bookshop.org/p/books/on-democracy-and-death-cults-israel-and-the-future-of-civilization-douglas-murray/21985955?affiliate=397&ean=9780063437135&next=t&utm_source=openai)) He takes readers on a harrowing journey through the aftermath of the October 7 massacre, piecing together exclusive accounts from victims, survivors, and even the terrorists responsible for the atrocities. ([bookshop.org](https://bookshop.org/p/books/on-democracy-and-death-cults-israel-and-the-future-of-civilization-douglas-murray/21985955?affiliate=397&ean=9780063437135&next=t&utm_source=openai))
Murray's narrative is both harrowing and enlightening. He meticulously reconstructs the events of October 7, providing exclusive accounts from victims, survivors, and even the perpetrators themselves. This approach offers a multifaceted perspective that is often absent in mainstream discourse. ([bookshop.org](https://bookshop.org/p/books/on-democracy-and-death-cults-israel-and-the-future-of-civilization-douglas-murray/21985955?affiliate=397&ean=9780063437135&next=t&utm_source=openai))
One of the book's most compelling arguments is the juxtaposition of Israel's commitment to fundamental Western values—capitalism, individual rights, democracy, and reason—with the ideology of Hamas, which openly proclaims its love of death over life. ([bookshop.org](https://bookshop.org/p/books/on-democracy-and-death-cults-israel-and-the-future-of-civilization-douglas-murray/21985955?affiliate=397&ean=9780063437135&next=t&utm_source=openai)) Murray contends that this stark contrast is often overlooked or misrepresented in Western narratives, leading to a dangerous misalignment of sympathies.
However, the book is not without its shortcomings. Murray's unequivocal support for Israel may be perceived as lacking nuance, potentially alienating readers seeking a more balanced analysis. Additionally, his critique of Western supporters of Palestine as "unwittingly aligning with an evil empire" ([bookshop.org](https://bookshop.org/p/books/on-democracy-and-death-cults-israel-and-the-future-of-civilization-douglas-murray/21985955?affiliate=397&ean=9780063437135&next=t&utm_source=openai)) could be seen as overly simplistic and dismissive of the complexities inherent in the conflict.
In conclusion, "On Democracies and Death Cults" is a deeply reasoned, clear-eyed, and fact-grounded exploration of a contentious issue. ([bookshop.org](https://bookshop.org/p/books/on-democracy-and-death-cults-israel-and-the-future-of-civilization-douglas-murray/21985955?affiliate=397&ean=9780063437135&next=t&utm_source=openai)) While it may not satisfy those seeking a neutral perspective, it is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the ideological underpinnings of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its broader implications for the future of democracy.
Final recommendation: Highly recommended!
Recommendation: Highly recommended!
written on: 5/1/2025