Spear to the West: Thought and Recruitment in Violent Jihadism (Paperback)

‘Chan’s argument … has at least two major implications: only those capable of speaking within the ideological terms of jihadis can counter their appeal, and counterterrorism strategists must consider using the Internet in ways they have not yet tried.’ - Foreign Affairs

‘Chan’s succinct and discerning study of violent jihadism and radicalization will reward specialists and policy-makers, but its apportionment in discrete, digestible essays makes it a good choice for anyone needing a primer on its complex and critically important subject.’ - Michigan War Studies Review

'With erudition and élan, this insightful book challenges us to rise above facile condemnations and to acknowledge that contemporary jihadists evince a moral reasoning--one that is, at once, motivating, arrogant, and self-limiting.' - James Piscatori, co-author of 'Muslim Politics'

‘For anyone who is seeking to understand the mind of the jihadis, Chen has provided a wealth of information and insights.’

'Stephen Chan is one of the great doyens of world politics. His book "Spear to the West" displays his distinctive global consciousness and unique cultural empathy, even when tackling the most contentious topics.' - Arshin Adib-Moghaddam, Professor in Global Thought and Comparative Philosophies, SOAS, University of London

'In this brilliant, disturbing work Chan lays bare the global jihad’s sinister engagement with modernity. Full of insights, it is one of the best treatments of radicalisation I have read.' - John Calvert, Professor of History, Creighton University

'Chan shows how the West incubates jihad and must instead respond actively to digital recruitment by ISIS. He also argues powerfully for debate within Islamic scholarship to accommodate Muslim aspirations for justice.' - Alison Scott-Baumann, Professor of Society and Belief, SOAS University of London