Des camps au génocide : la politique de l'impensable

Discusses the vast historiography on the Holocaust, including the "historians' debate". Analyzes the concept of a unique duality between the concentration camps with their specific realities and the subsequent genocide of the Jews. Asserts that concentration camps served as an "inescapable barrier" during the Holocaust. Emphasizes the role of Hitler and SS leaders as essential to the execution of the Final Solution. Compares the role of bureaucrats and bystanders, concentrating on the latter, which included the European elites who failed to react. This passivity facilitated Hitler's plan to exterminate an entire people. Criticizes use of the term "unimaginable" when referring to the Holocaust. Argues that the genocide and the context of the concentration camps were part of the same political agenda, a death machine designed by human beings. Concludes that Auschwitz is the eternal symbol of humanity's paralysis in the face of mass destruction. Includes bibliographical references (pages 229-235). 235 pages ; 24 cm