One of the Big Issues, 20 May 2007
Humanitarian Intervention has been a touchy topic in the world politics arena ever since the term was coined. N. Wheeler explores this topic in a wonderfully organised and objective manner. Looking into intervention in the 1970s, and the response of the world and mainly the United Nations Wheeler puts forward and interesting and easy to understand view of both the physical and theoretical world of Humanitarian intervention.
Using compelling case studies presented in an immaculate way Wheeler points out the pros and cons of humanitarian intervention, the total lack of understanding or desire to help by certain strong nations in the world, and the legal difficulties in international law and international relations regarding the act of intervening in the business of sovereign states.
The book is ideal for first year students of international relations, helping them to understand the theoretical and legal aspect of a very big issue within the field. However it is also helpful to more experienced readers as a point of references and a well structured point of view.
I would recommend this book very highly to anyone who is interested in the subject matter.


A challenge to the norm, 14 May 2004
The subject of humanitarian intervention, and whether it has become a legitimate practice amongst the society of states, has been one of the defining debates in international relations in the 1990's. Dr Wheeler's book on this incredibly complex moral question is of the very highest calibre in terms of its scope and definition. One of its key strengths as a text lies in its suitability for both those who are new to the subject matter, especially in its discussion of the case studies, and for the more experienced reader in terms of the theoretical basis of Wheeler's position on how one can judge the success or otherwise of humanitarian intervention.
The book's overall objective is to trace the development of humanitarian intervention over the last thirty years. The case studies include interventions in the 1970's by India, Vietnam and Tanzania, all of which are extremely well presented and well structured. Whilst it is difficult to argue that these cases constituted what we would now term "humanitarian intervention", their inclusion in this book is very important as they mirror many of the concerns felt in the 1990's about the dilemma of pursuing humanitarian justice, whilst preserving the balance of global order, a key debate in not only humanitarian intervention, but in international relations as a whole.

The 1990's case studies are undoubtedly the core strength of the text, and are extremely well presented. The cases featured include the Iraq "no-Fly Zones", the U.S intervention in Somalia, the Rwandan Genocide, and the related cases of Bosnia and Kosovo. Presented in chronological order, they chart the history of action and inaction of the international community to incidents of humanitarian emergency over the course of the 1990's. As with the 70's cases, all the key facts and events are covered here, and are easily accessible to both the expert and the novice.

Perhaps the most intriguing and compelling aspect of the book is Wheeler's theoretical position on the subject of what constitutes a legitimate and successful humanitarian intervention. Anyone who has read the theories of humanitarian intervention expressed by other experts in the field will find this book makes a convincing and challenging contribution to existing debate. Wheeler somewhat controversially challenges many other thinkers on this subject by focussing on the outcome of an intervention as opposed to the motives of the interveners. Whilst Wheeler makes a good case for this approach in terms of his use of the case studies, his overall normative theoretical position taken from English School thinkers such as R. J Vincent and Headley Bull, demands by its very nature a central focus on the motives of the actor, and leaves a paradox at the heart of his theory which he never really manages to overcome. However, it is fair to say that this paradox is one that makes the book even more compelling, as one gets the feeling that if Wheeler could only have pulled off this trick, he would have created a theory of the most robust kind.

Overall, Saving Strangers is a must -read book on a subject close to the consciences of all engaged in both the study and practice of international affairs, and is a valuable contribution to our understanding of how the international community has dealt with humanitarian disaster, and how it should do so in the future.

One of the Big Issues, 20 May 2007
Humanitarian Intervention has been a touchy topic in the world politics arena ever since the term was coined. N. Wheeler explores this topic in a wonderfully organised and objective manner. Looking into intervention in the 1970s, and the response of the world and mainly the United Nations Wheeler puts forward and interesting and easy to understand view of both the physical and theoretical world of Humanitarian intervention.
Using compelling case studies presented in an immaculate way Wheeler points out the pros and cons of humanitarian intervention, the total lack of understanding or desire to help by certain strong nations in the world, and the legal difficulties in international law and international relations regarding the act of intervening in the business of sovereign states.
The book is ideal for first year students of international relations, helping them to understand the theoretical and legal aspect of a very big issue within the field. However it is also helpful to more experienced readers as a point of references and a well structured point of view.
I would recommend this book very highly to anyone who is interested in the subject matter.


A challenge to the norm, 14 May 2004
The subject of humanitarian intervention, and whether it has become a legitimate practice amongst the society of states, has been one of the defining debates in international relations in the 1990's. Dr Wheeler's book on this incredibly complex moral question is of the very highest calibre in terms of its scope and definition. One of its key strengths as a text lies in its suitability for both those who are new to the subject matter, especially in its discussion of the case studies, and for the more experienced reader in terms of the theoretical basis of Wheeler's position on how one can judge the success or otherwise of humanitarian intervention.
The book's overall objective is to trace the development of humanitarian intervention over the last thirty years. The case studies include interventions in the 1970's by India, Vietnam and Tanzania, all of which are extremely well presented and well structured. Whilst it is difficult to argue that these cases constituted what we would now term "humanitarian intervention", their inclusion in this book is very important as they mirror many of the concerns felt in the 1990's about the dilemma of pursuing humanitarian justice, whilst preserving the balance of global order, a key debate in not only humanitarian intervention, but in international relations as a whole.

The 1990's case studies are undoubtedly the core strength of the text, and are extremely well presented. The cases featured include the Iraq "no-Fly Zones", the U.S intervention in Somalia, the Rwandan Genocide, and the related cases of Bosnia and Kosovo. Presented in chronological order, they chart the history of action and inaction of the international community to incidents of humanitarian emergency over the course of the 1990's. As with the 70's cases, all the key facts and events are covered here, and are easily accessible to both the expert and the novice.

Perhaps the most intriguing and compelling aspect of the book is Wheeler's theoretical position on the subject of what constitutes a legitimate and successful humanitarian intervention. Anyone who has read the theories of humanitarian intervention expressed by other experts in the field will find this book makes a convincing and challenging contribution to existing debate. Wheeler somewhat controversially challenges many other thinkers on this subject by focussing on the outcome of an intervention as opposed to the motives of the interveners. Whilst Wheeler makes a good case for this approach in terms of his use of the case studies, his overall normative theoretical position taken from English School thinkers such as R. J Vincent and Headley Bull, demands by its very nature a central focus on the motives of the actor, and leaves a paradox at the heart of his theory which he never really manages to overcome. However, it is fair to say that this paradox is one that makes the book even more compelling, as one gets the feeling that if Wheeler could only have pulled off this trick, he would have created a theory of the most robust kind.

Overall, Saving Strangers is a must -read book on a subject close to the consciences of all engaged in both the study and practice of international affairs, and is a valuable contribution to our understanding of how the international community has dealt with humanitarian disaster, and how it should do so in the future.

spell binding and unmissable, 19 Jan 2008
Gus Gilbert, had free access to all the defendents during the entire Nuremberg trials. He spent much time in discussion with all the Nazi defendents, Goering, Ribbentrop, Hess, Kaltenbrunner, Rosenberg, Frank, Frick, Sauckel, Speer, Schacht, Funk, Papen, Neurath, Schirach, Seyss-Inquart, Streicher, Keitel, Jodl, Doenitz and Fritzsche. Robert Ley had committed suicide in his cell prior to the trial.

The book is a record of the defendents thoughts and a diary of conversations and observations. It is facinationing. Author Gilbert was a psychologist by profession and also acted as a sympathetic ear and councillor for some of the defendents and in some cases really gained their confidence. I have a very big problem with this because he also used this information to suggest lines of attack to the prosecution in some prisoners cases, in particular Goering.

This said, you begin to feel that you knew the prisoners as individuals by the end of the book, which is all credit to the author. Also very interesting is the continued power struggle between some of the defendents even in captivity.

It is a very interesting exercise to compare your own verdicts with that of the judges. One suspects that justice had a little bit of a flexible quality about it.

It is very difficult, if not impossible, to put the book down once you have started reading it.

Second Hand info from a First Hand Source, 24 Jul 2005
International Law interests me and I have read alot of books on warcrimes and criminals, and had read Gilbert before. So I was looking forward to this book. But it's extreemely disappointing. There is nothing new here, and Gilbert's comments on the prisoners offer nothing new. The book feels like a brag, an account of how one american came face to face with the monsters, if Gilbert was not there I would have said that this was just another atempt at postering like the dreadful Nurmberg Tv series.
The only good parts of this books are the direct quotes from the prisoners, even then one can not help thinking that they have been carefully chosen and quoted to serve the authors end.

Good but should have been better., 03 Feb 2005
I agree with the New York based reviewer below. The introduction of the psychologist's own opinions into conversations with the defendants and into descriptions of events in the text does spoil this book somewhat. The omission of coverage of a number of the defence cases 'for brevity' is very annoying.

Another quibble is that the account presented is strongly biased towards coverage of conversations with Goering, Schact, Von Shirach, Ribbentrop, Frank and Speer - whether this is because the others (e.g. Frick, Funk, Kaltenbrunner) refused contact with Gilbert, coverage was simply omitted or if they were not approached at all is not made at all clear. Finally, I would also agree with the sentiment expressing a desire for more (some!!) coverage of the scientific psychological examination of the defendants.

This is, however, a very engaging account of the trial and the personalities of some of its protagonists, which is, by definition, unique. Those seeking a thorough description of the history of the trial, the legal issues, geopolitical wrangling and the prosecution characters will be better served with the excellent 'The Nuremberg Trials' by Ann and John Tusa. That said, this book really should not be overlooked, as it is an excellent read.

Unique, in its own kind. I wouldn't miss it., 15 Feb 2001
I would recommend this book as it views the trial and above all the defendants from a perspective which no other book can possibly offer. I think it important for future reader that they are aware that this is hardly a complete account of the trial itself. Other books (The Nuremberg Trial, by Ann and John Tusa for example) achieve this well enough. This book brings you into the cells and lets you hear what the defendants thought about the whole situation, until you become familiar with their different personalities. I would recommend reading some other book before this, to gain better knowledge of the trial, but definitely I would not miss this one. It'd be like reading a book first, and then having a chance to meet the actors.

AN EXCELLENT ACCOUNT FROM THE MAN WHO WAS THERE, 05 Apr 1999
Gustav Gilbert gives a brilliant account of isstay at Nuremberg for the duration of the infamous trial. He exposes the men on trial not only as monsters but as humans. An account like no other as he remains steadfast to his work until the end when other such as Gen Kelley have left to return home and publish their own accounts. Gilbert allows us full access to these men as they realize what has happened and that they have no escape from their fate. He shows his own compassion for the condemed as he pays visits to their families to give them hop as well as get information vital to his book.

One of the Big Issues, 20 May 2007
Humanitarian Intervention has been a touchy topic in the world politics arena ever since the term was coined. N. Wheeler explores this topic in a wonderfully organised and objective manner. Looking into intervention in the 1970s, and the response of the world and mainly the United Nations Wheeler puts forward and interesting and easy to understand view of both the physical and theoretical world of Humanitarian intervention.
Using compelling case studies presented in an immaculate way Wheeler points out the pros and cons of humanitarian intervention, the total lack of understanding or desire to help by certain strong nations in the world, and the legal difficulties in international law and international relations regarding the act of intervening in the business of sovereign states.
The book is ideal for first year students of international relations, helping them to understand the theoretical and legal aspect of a very big issue within the field. However it is also helpful to more experienced readers as a point of references and a well structured point of view.
I would recommend this book very highly to anyone who is interested in the subject matter.


A challenge to the norm, 14 May 2004
The subject of humanitarian intervention, and whether it has become a legitimate practice amongst the society of states, has been one of the defining debates in international relations in the 1990's. Dr Wheeler's book on this incredibly complex moral question is of the very highest calibre in terms of its scope and definition. One of its key strengths as a text lies in its suitability for both those who are new to the subject matter, especially in its discussion of the case studies, and for the more experienced reader in terms of the theoretical basis of Wheeler's position on how one can judge the success or otherwise of humanitarian intervention.
The book's overall objective is to trace the development of humanitarian intervention over the last thirty years. The case studies include interventions in the 1970's by India, Vietnam and Tanzania, all of which are extremely well presented and well structured. Whilst it is difficult to argue that these cases constituted what we would now term "humanitarian intervention", their inclusion in this book is very important as they mirror many of the concerns felt in the 1990's about the dilemma of pursuing humanitarian justice, whilst preserving the balance of global order, a key debate in not only humanitarian intervention, but in international relations as a whole.

The 1990's case studies are undoubtedly the core strength of the text, and are extremely well presented. The cases featured include the Iraq "no-Fly Zones", the U.S intervention in Somalia, the Rwandan Genocide, and the related cases of Bosnia and Kosovo. Presented in chronological order, they chart the history of action and inaction of the international community to incidents of humanitarian emergency over the course of the 1990's. As with the 70's cases, all the key facts and events are covered here, and are easily accessible to both the expert and the novice.

Perhaps the most intriguing and compelling aspect of the book is Wheeler's theoretical position on the subject of what constitutes a legitimate and successful humanitarian intervention. Anyone who has read the theories of humanitarian intervention expressed by other experts in the field will find this book makes a convincing and challenging contribution to existing debate. Wheeler somewhat controversially challenges many other thinkers on this subject by focussing on the outcome of an intervention as opposed to the motives of the interveners. Whilst Wheeler makes a good case for this approach in terms of his use of the case studies, his overall normative theoretical position taken from English School thinkers such as R. J Vincent and Headley Bull, demands by its very nature a central focus on the motives of the actor, and leaves a paradox at the heart of his theory which he never really manages to overcome. However, it is fair to say that this paradox is one that makes the book even more compelling, as one gets the feeling that if Wheeler could only have pulled off this trick, he would have created a theory of the most robust kind.

Overall, Saving Strangers is a must -read book on a subject close to the consciences of all engaged in both the study and practice of international affairs, and is a valuable contribution to our understanding of how the international community has dealt with humanitarian disaster, and how it should do so in the future.

spell binding and unmissable, 19 Jan 2008
Gus Gilbert, had free access to all the defendents during the entire Nuremberg trials. He spent much time in discussion with all the Nazi defendents, Goering, Ribbentrop, Hess, Kaltenbrunner, Rosenberg, Frank, Frick, Sauckel, Speer, Schacht, Funk, Papen, Neurath, Schirach, Seyss-Inquart, Streicher, Keitel, Jodl, Doenitz and Fritzsche. Robert Ley had committed suicide in his cell prior to the trial.

The book is a record of the defendents thoughts and a diary of conversations and observations. It is facinationing. Author Gilbert was a psychologist by profession and also acted as a sympathetic ear and councillor for some of the defendents and in some cases really gained their confidence. I have a very big problem with this because he also used this information to suggest lines of attack to the prosecution in some prisoners cases, in particular Goering.

This said, you begin to feel that you knew the prisoners as individuals by the end of the book, which is all credit to the author. Also very interesting is the continued power struggle between some of the defendents even in captivity.

It is a very interesting exercise to compare your own verdicts with that of the judges. One suspects that justice had a little bit of a flexible quality about it.

It is very difficult, if not impossible, to put the book down once you have started reading it.

Second Hand info from a First Hand Source, 24 Jul 2005
International Law interests me and I have read alot of books on warcrimes and criminals, and had read Gilbert before. So I was looking forward to this book. But it's extreemely disappointing. There is nothing new here, and Gilbert's comments on the prisoners offer nothing new. The book feels like a brag, an account of how one american came face to face with the monsters, if Gilbert was not there I would have said that this was just another atempt at postering like the dreadful Nurmberg Tv series.
The only good parts of this books are the direct quotes from the prisoners, even then one can not help thinking that they have been carefully chosen and quoted to serve the authors end.

Good but should have been better., 03 Feb 2005
I agree with the New York based reviewer below. The introduction of the psychologist's own opinions into conversations with the defendants and into descriptions of events in the text does spoil this book somewhat. The omission of coverage of a number of the defence cases 'for brevity' is very annoying.

Another quibble is that the account presented is strongly biased towards coverage of conversations with Goering, Schact, Von Shirach, Ribbentrop, Frank and Speer - whether this is because the others (e.g. Frick, Funk, Kaltenbrunner) refused contact with Gilbert, coverage was simply omitted or if they were not approached at all is not made at all clear. Finally, I would also agree with the sentiment expressing a desire for more (some!!) coverage of the scientific psychological examination of the defendants.

This is, however, a very engaging account of the trial and the personalities of some of its protagonists, which is, by definition, unique. Those seeking a thorough description of the history of the trial, the legal issues, geopolitical wrangling and the prosecution characters will be better served with the excellent 'The Nuremberg Trials' by Ann and John Tusa. That said, this book really should not be overlooked, as it is an excellent read.

Unique, in its own kind. I wouldn't miss it., 15 Feb 2001
I would recommend this book as it views the trial and above all the defendants from a perspective which no other book can possibly offer. I think it important for future reader that they are aware that this is hardly a complete account of the trial itself. Other books (The Nuremberg Trial, by Ann and John Tusa for example) achieve this well enough. This book brings you into the cells and lets you hear what the defendants thought about the whole situation, until you become familiar with their different personalities. I would recommend reading some other book before this, to gain better knowledge of the trial, but definitely I would not miss this one. It'd be like reading a book first, and then having a chance to meet the actors.

AN EXCELLENT ACCOUNT FROM THE MAN WHO WAS THERE, 05 Apr 1999
Gustav Gilbert gives a brilliant account of isstay at Nuremberg for the duration of the infamous trial. He exposes the men on trial not only as monsters but as humans. An account like no other as he remains steadfast to his work until the end when other such as Gen Kelley have left to return home and publish their own accounts. Gilbert allows us full access to these men as they realize what has happened and that they have no escape from their fate. He shows his own compassion for the condemed as he pays visits to their families to give them hop as well as get information vital to his book.

Chilling in its banality - a surprising primary source, 04 Jan 2008
The most frightening thing about these interviews is that they expose how utterly banal the major players in Nazi Germany during World War II actually were. This series of interviews, conducted with defendants and witnesses during the Nuremberg Trials and recorded faithfully by Leon Goldensohn, make for compelling reading. But the difficulty is - you don't know quite why you so want to continue. Perhaps you are looking for a hint of the larger-than-life monster in each character? Perhaps you are hoping for remorse, acceptance of responsibility, truth? But you don't find it in these words. What you find is a picture of fear, inhumanity in many cases, weakness, bombast and a birds-eye view tainted by some very different personalities.

A valuable first hand account for any students of Twentieth Century History.

One of the Big Issues, 20 May 2007
Humanitarian Intervention has been a touchy topic in the world politics arena ever since the term was coined. N. Wheeler explores this topic in a wonderfully organised and objective manner. Looking into intervention in the 1970s, and the response of the world and mainly the United Nations Wheeler puts forward and interesting and easy to understand view of both the physical and theoretical world of Humanitarian intervention.
Using compelling case studies presented in an immaculate way Wheeler points out the pros and cons of humanitarian intervention, the total lack of understanding or desire to help by certain strong nations in the world, and the legal difficulties in international law and international relations regarding the act of intervening in the business of sovereign states.
The book is ideal for first year students of international relations, helping them to understand the theoretical and legal aspect of a very big issue within the field. However it is also helpful to more experienced readers as a point of references and a well structured point of view.
I would recommend this book very highly to anyone who is interested in the subject matter.


A challenge to the norm, 14 May 2004
The subject of humanitarian intervention, and whether it has become a legitimate practice amongst the society of states, has been one of the defining debates in international relations in the 1990's. Dr Wheeler's book on this incredibly complex moral question is of the very highest calibre in terms of its scope and definition. One of its key strengths as a text lies in its suitability for both those who are new to the subject matter, especially in its discussion of the case studies, and for the more experienced reader in terms of the theoretical basis of Wheeler's position on how one can judge the success or otherwise of humanitarian intervention.
The book's overall objective is to trace the development of humanitarian intervention over the last thirty years. The case studies include interventions in the 1970's by India, Vietnam and Tanzania, all of which are extremely well presented and well structured. Whilst it is difficult to argue that these cases constituted what we would now term "humanitarian intervention", their inclusion in this book is very important as they mirror many of the concerns felt in the 1990's about the dilemma of pursuing humanitarian justice, whilst preserving the balance of global order, a key debate in not only humanitarian intervention, but in international relations as a whole.

The 1990's case studies are undoubtedly the core strength of the text, and are extremely well presented. The cases featured include the Iraq "no-Fly Zones", the U.S intervention in Somalia, the Rwandan Genocide, and the related cases of Bosnia and Kosovo. Presented in chronological order, they chart the history of action and inaction of the international community to incidents of humanitarian emergency over the course of the 1990's. As with the 70's cases, all the key facts and events are covered here, and are easily accessible to both the expert and the novice.

Perhaps the most intriguing and compelling aspect of the book is Wheeler's theoretical position on the subject of what constitutes a legitimate and successful humanitarian intervention. Anyone who has read the theories of humanitarian intervention expressed by other experts in the field will find this book makes a convincing and challenging contribution to existing debate. Wheeler somewhat controversially challenges many other thinkers on this subject by focussing on the outcome of an intervention as opposed to the motives of the interveners. Whilst Wheeler makes a good case for this approach in terms of his use of the case studies, his overall normative theoretical position taken from English School thinkers such as R. J Vincent and Headley Bull, demands by its very nature a central focus on the motives of the actor, and leaves a paradox at the heart of his theory which he never really manages to overcome. However, it is fair to say that this paradox is one that makes the book even more compelling, as one gets the feeling that if Wheeler could only have pulled off this trick, he would have created a theory of the most robust kind.

Overall, Saving Strangers is a must -read book on a subject close to the consciences of all engaged in both the study and practice of international affairs, and is a valuable contribution to our understanding of how the international community has dealt with humanitarian disaster, and how it should do so in the future.

spell binding and unmissable, 19 Jan 2008
Gus Gilbert, had free access to all the defendents during the entire Nuremberg trials. He spent much time in discussion with all the Nazi defendents, Goering, Ribbentrop, Hess, Kaltenbrunner, Rosenberg, Frank, Frick, Sauckel, Speer, Schacht, Funk, Papen, Neurath, Schirach, Seyss-Inquart, Streicher, Keitel, Jodl, Doenitz and Fritzsche. Robert Ley had committed suicide in his cell prior to the trial.

The book is a record of the defendents thoughts and a diary of conversations and observations. It is facinationing. Author Gilbert was a psychologist by profession and also acted as a sympathetic ear and councillor for some of the defendents and in some cases really gained their confidence. I have a very big problem with this because he also used this information to suggest lines of attack to the prosecution in some prisoners cases, in particular Goering.

This said, you begin to feel that you knew the prisoners as individuals by the end of the book, which is all credit to the author. Also very interesting is the continued power struggle between some of the defendents even in captivity.

It is a very interesting exercise to compare your own verdicts with that of the judges. One suspects that justice had a little bit of a flexible quality about it.

It is very difficult, if not impossible, to put the book down once you have started reading it.

Second Hand info from a First Hand Source, 24 Jul 2005
International Law interests me and I have read alot of books on warcrimes and criminals, and had read Gilbert before. So I was looking forward to this book. But it's extreemely disappointing. There is nothing new here, and Gilbert's comments on the prisoners offer nothing new. The book feels like a brag, an account of how one american came face to face with the monsters, if Gilbert was not there I would have said that this was just another atempt at postering like the dreadful Nurmberg Tv series.
The only good parts of this books are the direct quotes from the prisoners, even then one can not help thinking that they have been carefully chosen and quoted to serve the authors end.

Good but should have been better., 03 Feb 2005
I agree with the New York based reviewer below. The introduction of the psychologist's own opinions into conversations with the defendants and into descriptions of events in the text does spoil this book somewhat. The omission of coverage of a number of the defence cases 'for brevity' is very annoying.

Another quibble is that the account presented is strongly biased towards coverage of conversations with Goering, Schact, Von Shirach, Ribbentrop, Frank and Speer - whether this is because the others (e.g. Frick, Funk, Kaltenbrunner) refused contact with Gilbert, coverage was simply omitted or if they were not approached at all is not made at all clear. Finally, I would also agree with the sentiment expressing a desire for more (some!!) coverage of the scientific psychological examination of the defendants.

This is, however, a very engaging account of the trial and the personalities of some of its protagonists, which is, by definition, unique. Those seeking a thorough description of the history of the trial, the legal issues, geopolitical wrangling and the prosecution characters will be better served with the excellent 'The Nuremberg Trials' by Ann and John Tusa. That said, this book really should not be overlooked, as it is an excellent read.

Unique, in its own kind. I wouldn't miss it., 15 Feb 2001
I would recommend this book as it views the trial and above all the defendants from a perspective which no other book can possibly offer. I think it important for future reader that they are aware that this is hardly a complete account of the trial itself. Other books (The Nuremberg Trial, by Ann and John Tusa for example) achieve this well enough. This book brings you into the cells and lets you hear what the defendants thought about the whole situation, until you become familiar with their different personalities. I would recommend reading some other book before this, to gain better knowledge of the trial, but definitely I would not miss this one. It'd be like reading a book first, and then having a chance to meet the actors.

AN EXCELLENT ACCOUNT FROM THE MAN WHO WAS THERE, 05 Apr 1999
Gustav Gilbert gives a brilliant account of isstay at Nuremberg for the duration of the infamous trial. He exposes the men on trial not only as monsters but as humans. An account like no other as he remains steadfast to his work until the end when other such as Gen Kelley have left to return home and publish their own accounts. Gilbert allows us full access to these men as they realize what has happened and that they have no escape from their fate. He shows his own compassion for the condemed as he pays visits to their families to give them hop as well as get information vital to his book.

Chilling in its banality - a surprising primary source, 04 Jan 2008
The most frightening thing about these interviews is that they expose how utterly banal the major players in Nazi Germany during World War II actually were. This series of interviews, conducted with defendants and witnesses during the Nuremberg Trials and recorded faithfully by Leon Goldensohn, make for compelling reading. But the difficulty is - you don't know quite why you so want to continue. Perhaps you are looking for a hint of the larger-than-life monster in each character? Perhaps you are hoping for remorse, acceptance of responsibility, truth? But you don't find it in these words. What you find is a picture of fear, inhumanity in many cases, weakness, bombast and a birds-eye view tainted by some very different personalities.

A valuable first hand account for any students of Twentieth Century History.

A "Must" For Immigration Lawyers, 20 Dec 2002
Everything you needed to know about immigration and asylum but were afraid to ask! Is there an immigration lawyer in the country who doesn't own this book? If so, shame on you. This is a "no frills" compendium of UK immigration and asylum statutes, together with very useful appendices on all issues of human rights.

The only downside? The reason it gets only 4 stars? We could do with some footnotes!

A useful resource bringing together all relevant statutes., 04 Nov 2001
This is a logically laid out book, presenting all the relevant statutes in chronological order, including items such as The British Nationality Act and The Entry Through Ireland Order. Consequently it is not a "hand" book as such but a useful, one-stop resource. In particular, it has amended the 1971 Act in the light of recent legislation and the alterations are clearly marked.

One of the Big Issues, 20 May 2007
Humanitarian Intervention has been a touchy topic in the world politics arena ever since the term was coined. N. Wheeler explores this topic in a wonderfully organised and objective manner. Looking into intervention in the 1970s, and the response of the world and mainly the United Nations Wheeler puts forward and interesting and easy to understand view of both the physical and theoretical world of Humanitarian intervention.
Using compelling case studies presented in an immaculate way Wheeler points out the pros and cons of humanitarian intervention, the total lack of understanding or desire to help by certain strong nations in the world, and the legal difficulties in international law and international relations regarding the act of intervening in the business of sovereign states.
The book is ideal for first year students of international relations, helping them to understand the theoretical and legal aspect of a very big issue within the field. However it is also helpful to more experienced readers as a point of references and a well structured point of view.
I would recommend this book very highly to anyone who is interested in the subject matter.


A challenge to the norm, 14 May 2004
The subject of humanitarian intervention, and whether it has become a legitimate practice amongst the society of states, has been one of the defining debates in international relations in the 1990's. Dr Wheeler's book on this incredibly complex moral question is of the very highest calibre in terms of its scope and definition. One of its key strengths as a text lies in its suitability for both those who are new to the subject matter, especially in its discussion of the case studies, and for the more experienced reader in terms of the theoretical basis of Wheeler's position on how one can judge the success or otherwise of humanitarian intervention.
The book's overall objective is to trace the development of humanitarian intervention over the last thirty years. The case studies include interventions in the 1970's by India, Vietnam and Tanzania, all of which are extremely well presented and well structured. Whilst it is difficult to argue that these cases constituted what we would now term "humanitarian intervention", their inclusion in this book is very important as they mirror many of the concerns felt in the 1990's about the dilemma of pursuing humanitarian justice, whilst preserving the balance of global order, a key debate in not only humanitarian intervention, but in international relations as a whole.

The 1990's case studies are undoubtedly the core strength of the text, and are extremely well presented. The cases featured include the Iraq "no-Fly Zones", the U.S intervention in Somalia, the Rwandan Genocide, and the related cases of Bosnia and Kosovo. Presented in chronological order, they chart the history of action and inaction of the international community to incidents of humanitarian emergency over the course of the 1990's. As with the 70's cases, all the key facts and events are covered here, and are easily accessible to both the expert and the novice.

Perhaps the most intriguing and compelling aspect of the book is Wheeler's theoretical position on the subject of what constitutes a legitimate and successful humanitarian intervention. Anyone who has read the theories of humanitarian intervention expressed by other experts in the field will find this book makes a convincing and challenging contribution to existing debate. Wheeler somewhat controversially challenges many other thinkers on this subject by focussing on the outcome of an intervention as opposed to the motives of the interveners. Whilst Wheeler makes a good case for this approach in terms of his use of the case studies, his overall normative theoretical position taken from English School thinkers such as R. J Vincent and Headley Bull, demands by its very nature a central focus on the motives of the actor, and leaves a paradox at the heart of his theory which he never really manages to overcome. However, it is fair to say that this paradox is one that makes the book even more compelling, as one gets the feeling that if Wheeler could only have pulled off this trick, he would have created a theory of the most robust kind.

Overall, Saving Strangers is a must -read book on a subject close to the consciences of all engaged in both the study and practice of international affairs, and is a valuable contribution to our understanding of how the international community has dealt with humanitarian disaster, and how it should do so in the future.

spell binding and unmissable, 19 Jan 2008
Gus Gilbert, had free access to all the defendents during the entire Nuremberg trials. He spent much time in discussion with all the Nazi defendents, Goering, Ribbentrop, Hess, Kaltenbrunner, Rosenberg, Frank, Frick, Sauckel, Speer, Schacht, Funk, Papen, Neurath, Schirach, Seyss-Inquart, Streicher, Keitel, Jodl, Doenitz and Fritzsche. Robert Ley had committed suicide in his cell prior to the trial.

The book is a record of the defendents thoughts and a diary of conversations and observations. It is facinationing. Author Gilbert was a psychologist by profession and also acted as a sympathetic ear and councillor for some of the defendents and in some cases really gained their confidence. I have a very big problem with this because he also used this information to suggest lines of attack to the prosecution in some prisoners cases, in particular Goering.

This said, you begin to feel that you knew the prisoners as individuals by the end of the book, which is all credit to the author. Also very interesting is the continued power struggle between some of the defendents even in captivity.

It is a very interesting exercise to compare your own verdicts with that of the judges. One suspects that justice had a little bit of a flexible quality about it.

It is very difficult, if not impossible, to put the book down once you have started reading it.

Second Hand info from a First Hand Source, 24 Jul 2005
International Law interests me and I have read alot of books on warcrimes and criminals, and had read Gilbert before. So I was looking forward to this book. But it's extreemely disappointing. There is nothing new here, and Gilbert's comments on the prisoners offer nothing new. The book feels like a brag, an account of how one american came face to face with the monsters, if Gilbert was not there I would have said that this was just another atempt at postering like the dreadful Nurmberg Tv series.
The only good parts of this books are the direct quotes from the prisoners, even then one can not help thinking that they have been carefully chosen and quoted to serve the authors end.

Good but should have been better., 03 Feb 2005
I agree with the New York based reviewer below. The introduction of the psychologist's own opinions into conversations with the defendants and into descriptions of events in the text does spoil this book somewhat. The omission of coverage of a number of the defence cases 'for brevity' is very annoying.

Another quibble is that the account presented is strongly biased towards coverage of conversations with Goering, Schact, Von Shirach, Ribbentrop, Frank and Speer - whether this is because the others (e.g. Frick, Funk, Kaltenbrunner) refused contact with Gilbert, coverage was simply omitted or if they were not approached at all is not made at all clear. Finally, I would also agree with the sentiment expressing a desire for more (some!!) coverage of the scientific psychological examination of the defendants.

This is, however, a very engaging account of the trial and the personalities of some of its protagonists, which is, by definition, unique. Those seeking a thorough description of the history of the trial, the legal issues, geopolitical wrangling and the prosecution characters will be better served with the excellent 'The Nuremberg Trials' by Ann and John Tusa. That said, this book really should not be overlooked, as it is an excellent read.

Unique, in its own kind. I wouldn't miss it., 15 Feb 2001
I would recommend this book as it views the trial and above all the defendants from a perspective which no other book can possibly offer. I think it important for future reader that they are aware that this is hardly a complete account of the trial itself. Other books (The Nuremberg Trial, by Ann and John Tusa for example) achieve this well enough. This book brings you into the cells and lets you hear what the defendants thought about the whole situation, until you become familiar with their different personalities. I would recommend reading some other book before this, to gain better knowledge of the trial, but definitely I would not miss this one. It'd be like reading a book first, and then having a chance to meet the actors.

AN EXCELLENT ACCOUNT FROM THE MAN WHO WAS THERE, 05 Apr 1999
Gustav Gilbert gives a brilliant account of isstay at Nuremberg for the duration of the infamous trial. He exposes the men on trial not only as monsters but as humans. An account like no other as he remains steadfast to his work until the end when other such as Gen Kelley have left to return home and publish their own accounts. Gilbert allows us full access to these men as they realize what has happened and that they have no escape from their fate. He shows his own compassion for the condemed as he pays visits to their families to give them hop as well as get information vital to his book.

Chilling in its banality - a surprising primary source, 04 Jan 2008
The most frightening thing about these interviews is that they expose how utterly banal the major players in Nazi Germany during World War II actually were. This series of interviews, conducted with defendants and witnesses during the Nuremberg Trials and recorded faithfully by Leon Goldensohn, make for compelling reading. But the difficulty is - you don't know quite why you so want to continue. Perhaps you are looking for a hint of the larger-than-life monster in each character? Perhaps you are hoping for remorse, acceptance of responsibility, truth? But you don't find it in these words. What you find is a picture of fear, inhumanity in many cases, weakness, bombast and a birds-eye view tainted by some very different personalities.

A valuable first hand account for any students of Twentieth Century History.

A "Must" For Immigration Lawyers, 20 Dec 2002
Everything you needed to know about immigration and asylum but were afraid to ask! Is there an immigration lawyer in the country who doesn't own this book? If so, shame on you. This is a "no frills" compendium of UK immigration and asylum statutes, together with very useful appendices on all issues of human rights.

The only downside? The reason it gets only 4 stars? We could do with some footnotes!

A useful resource bringing together all relevant statutes., 04 Nov 2001
This is a logically laid out book, presenting all the relevant statutes in chronological order, including items such as The British Nationality Act and The Entry Through Ireland Order. Consequently it is not a "hand" book as such but a useful, one-stop resource. In particular, it has amended the 1971 Act in the light of recent legislation and the alterations are clearly marked.

Dry and a little tedious..., 21 Oct 2008
I read this book, nay STUDIED this book in preparation for a University essay this year.

There are interesting facts and opinions but on the whole I found it very dry and a little hard going. If you want a nice, short introduction to the subject on appeasement then Frank McDonough's book is much easier to get to grips with. If you want a similar length book then John Charmley's is probably a better bet...

Can't say I agree with the other reviewer about Bush and Blair's war - a cmplete mistake and he is very naive if he thinks Saddam needed to be dealt with in comparison with many other 20th/21st century leaders! Oh yes - they don't have any oil - that would be the reason...

Alternate title, 09 Feb 2008
Well researched re-appraisal.For a contemporary viw see Lord Simon's autobiography. My suggested alternate title gives,in my opinion,the flavour of Parker--400 Good Reasons To support Bush and Blair's Foreign Policy

One of the Big Issues, 20 May 2007
Humanitarian Intervention has been a touchy topic in the world politics arena ever since the term was coined. N. Wheeler explores this topic in a wonderfully organised and objective manner. Looking into intervention in the 1970s, and the response of the world and mainly the United Nations Wheeler puts forward and interesting and easy to understand view of both the physical and theoretical world of Humanitarian intervention.
Using compelling case studies presented in an immaculate way Wheeler points out the pros and cons of humanitarian intervention, the total lack of understanding or desire to help by certain strong nations in the world, and the legal difficulties in international law and international relations regarding the act of intervening in the business of sovereign states.
The book is ideal for first year students of international relations, helping them to understand the theoretical and legal aspect of a very big issue within the field. However it is also helpful to more experienced readers as a point of references and a well structured point of view.
I would recommend this book very highly to anyone who is interested in the subject matter.


A challenge to the norm, 14 May 2004
The subject of humanitarian intervention, and whether it has become a legitimate practice amongst the society of states, has been one of the defining debates in international relations in the 1990's. Dr Wheeler's book on this incredibly complex moral question is of the very highest calibre in terms of its scope and definition. One of its key strengths as a text lies in its suitability for both those who are new to the subject matter, especially in its discussion of the case studies, and for the more experienced reader in terms of the theoretical basis of Wheeler's position on how one can judge the success or otherwise of humanitarian intervention.
The book's overall objective is to trace the development of humanitarian intervention over the last thirty years. The case studies include interventions in the 1970's by India, Vietnam and Tanzania, all of which are extremely well presented and well structured. Whilst it is difficult to argue that these cases constituted what we would now term "humanitarian intervention", their inclusion in this book is very important as they mirror many of the concerns felt in the 1990's about the dilemma of pursuing humanitarian justice, whilst preserving the balance of global order, a key debate in not only humanitarian intervention, but in international relations as a whole.

The 1990's case studies are undoubtedly the core strength of the text, and are extremely well presented. The cases featured include the Iraq "no-Fly Zones", the U.S intervention in Somalia, the Rwandan Genocide, and the related cases of Bosnia and Kosovo. Presented in chronological order, they chart the history of action and inaction of the international community to incidents of humanitarian emergency over the course of the 1990's. As with the 70's cases, all the key facts and events are covered here, and are easily accessible to both the expert and the novice.

Perhaps the most intriguing and compelling aspect of the book is Wheeler's theoretical position on the subject of what constitutes a legitimate and successful humanitarian intervention. Anyone who has read the theories of humanitarian intervention expressed by other experts in the field will find this book makes a convincing and challenging contribution to existing debate. Wheeler somewhat controversially challenges many other thinkers on this subject by focussing on the outcome of an intervention as opposed to the motives of the interveners. Whilst Wheeler makes a good case for this approach in terms of his use of the case studies, his overall normative theoretical position taken from English School thinkers such as R. J Vincent and Headley Bull, demands by its very nature a central focus on the motives of the actor, and leaves a paradox at the heart of his theory which he never really manages to overcome. However, it is fair to say that this paradox is one that makes the book even more compelling, as one gets the feeling that if Wheeler could only have pulled off this trick, he would have created a theory of the most robust kind.

Overall, Saving Strangers is a must -read book on a subject close to the consciences of all engaged in both the study and practice of international affairs, and is a valuable contribution to our understanding of how the international community has dealt with humanitarian disaster, and how it should do so in the future.

spell binding and unmissable, 19 Jan 2008
Gus Gilbert, had free access to all the defendents during the entire Nuremberg trials. He spent much time in discussion with all the Nazi defendents, Goering, Ribbentrop, Hess, Kaltenbrunner, Rosenberg, Frank, Frick, Sauckel, Speer, Schacht, Funk, Papen, Neurath, Schirach, Seyss-Inquart, Streicher, Keitel, Jodl, Doenitz and Fritzsche. Robert Ley had committed suicide in his cell prior to the trial.

The book is a record of the defendents thoughts and a diary of conversations and observations. It is facinationing. Author Gilbert was a psychologist by profession and also acted as a sympathetic ear and councillor for some of the defendents and in some cases really gained their confidence. I have a very big problem with this because he also used this information to suggest lines of attack to the prosecution in some prisoners cases, in particular Goering.

This said, you begin to feel that you knew the prisoners as individuals by the end of the book, which is all credit to the author. Also very interesting is the continued power struggle between some of the defendents even in captivity.

It is a very interesting exercise to compare your own verdicts with that of the judges. One suspects that justice had a little bit of a flexible quality about it.

It is very difficult, if not impossible, to put the book down once you have started reading it.

Second Hand info from a First Hand Source, 24 Jul 2005
International Law interests me and I have read alot of books on warcrimes and criminals, and had read Gilbert before. So I was looking forward to this book. But it's extreemely disappointing. There is nothing new here, and Gilbert's comments on the prisoners offer nothing new. The book feels like a brag, an account of how one american came face to face with the monsters, if Gilbert was not there I would have said that this was just another atempt at postering like the dreadful Nurmberg Tv series.
The only good parts of this books are the direct quotes from the prisoners, even then one can not help thinking that they have been carefully chosen and quoted to serve the authors end.

Good but should have been better., 03 Feb 2005
I agree with the New York based reviewer below. The introduction of the psychologist's own opinions into conversations with the defendants and into descriptions of events in the text does spoil this book somewhat. The omission of coverage of a number of the defence cases 'for brevity' is very annoying.

Another quibble is that the account presented is strongly biased towards coverage of conversations with Goering, Schact, Von Shirach, Ribbentrop, Frank and Speer - whether this is because the others (e.g. Frick, Funk, Kaltenbrunner) refused contact with Gilbert, coverage was simply omitted or if they were not approached at all is not made at all clear. Finally, I would also agree with the sentiment expressing a desire for more (some!!) coverage of the scientific psychological examination of the defendants.

This is, however, a very engaging account of the trial and the personalities of some of its protagonists, which is, by definition, unique. Those seeking a thorough description of the history of the trial, the legal issues, geopolitical wrangling and the prosecution characters will be better served with the excellent 'The Nuremberg Trials' by Ann and John Tusa. That said, this book really should not be overlooked, as it is an excellent read.

Unique, in its own kind. I wouldn't miss it., 15 Feb 2001
I would recommend this book as it views the trial and above all the defendants from a perspective which no other book can possibly offer. I think it important for future reader that they are aware that this is hardly a complete account of the trial itself. Other books (The Nuremberg Trial, by Ann and John Tusa for example) achieve this well enough. This book brings you into the cells and lets you hear what the defendants thought about the whole situation, until you become familiar with their different personalities. I would recommend reading some other book before this, to gain better knowledge of the trial, but definitely I would not miss this one. It'd be like reading a book first, and then having a chance to meet the actors.

AN EXCELLENT ACCOUNT FROM THE MAN WHO WAS THERE, 05 Apr 1999
Gustav Gilbert gives a brilliant account of isstay at Nuremberg for the duration of the infamous trial. He exposes the men on trial not only as monsters but as humans. An account like no other as he remains steadfast to his work until the end when other such as Gen Kelley have left to return home and publish their own accounts. Gilbert allows us full access to these men as they realize what has happened and that they have no escape from their fate. He shows his own compassion for the condemed as he pays visits to their families to give them hop as well as get information vital to his book.

Chilling in its banality - a surprising primary source, 04 Jan 2008
The most frightening thing about these interviews is that they expose how utterly banal the major players in Nazi Germany during World War II actually were. This series of interviews, conducted with defendants and witnesses during the Nuremberg Trials and recorded faithfully by Leon Goldensohn, make for compelling reading. But the difficulty is - you don't know quite why you so want to continue. Perhaps you are looking for a hint of the larger-than-life monster in each character? Perhaps you are hoping for remorse, acceptance of responsibility, truth? But you don't find it in these words. What you find is a picture of fear, inhumanity in many cases, weakness, bombast and a birds-eye view tainted by some very different personalities.

A valuable first hand account for any students of Twentieth Century History.

A "Must" For Immigration Lawyers, 20 Dec 2002
Everything you needed to know about immigration and asylum but were afraid to ask! Is there an immigration lawyer in the country who doesn't own this book? If so, shame on you. This is a "no frills" compendium of UK immigration and asylum statutes, together with very useful appendices on all issues of human rights.

The only downside? The reason it gets only 4 stars? We could do with some footnotes!

A useful resource bringing together all relevant statutes., 04 Nov 2001
This is a logically laid out book, presenting all the relevant statutes in chronological order, including items such as The British Nationality Act and The Entry Through Ireland Order. Consequently it is not a "hand" book as such but a useful, one-stop resource. In particular, it has amended the 1971 Act in the light of recent legislation and the alterations are clearly marked.

Dry and a little tedious..., 21 Oct 2008
I read this book, nay STUDIED this book in preparation for a University essay this year.

There are interesting facts and opinions but on the whole I found it very dry and a little hard going. If you want a nice, short introduction to the subject on appeasement then Frank McDonough's book is much easier to get to grips with. If you want a similar length book then John Charmley's is probably a better bet...

Can't say I agree with the other reviewer about Bush and Blair's war - a cmplete mistake and he is very naive if he thinks Saddam needed to be dealt with in comparison with many other 20th/21st century leaders! Oh yes - they don't have any oil - that would be the reason...

Alternate title, 09 Feb 2008
Well researched re-appraisal.For a contemporary viw see Lord Simon's autobiography. My suggested alternate title gives,in my opinion,the flavour of Parker--400 Good Reasons To support Bush and Blair's Foreign Policy

Good narrative on the development of the Geneva Convention, 11 Mar 2007
Angela Bennett has produced a very readable account of the history of the Geneva Convention, from the human devastation at the Battle of Solferino that drove Henry Dunant to do something, through the dynamics and politics within the Geneva Committee and the dedication and efforts of Henry Dunant and others to bring nations into agreement, and on to the Geneva Convention the world has today. Intertwined with all this is the development of the international Red Cross and Red Crescent movement.

The author gives the reader a lively insight into the strident efforts of and the challenges faced by Henry Dunant, Gustave Moynier, members of the Geneva Committee, and numerous others around the world to relieve the human tragedy of conflict. Following on from the history, she gives an overview of the situation today for the Geneva Convention, especially the complexities of implementing international humanitarian law to the situations of modern warfare and terrorism; highly topical is her account of the violation of the Convention by the USA over Guantanamo Bay.

This is not a dry, academic work, and the author has injected her own comment and views to bring the work to life. A recommended read for anyone interested in an introduction to the development of international humanitarian law and the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

One of the Big Issues, 20 May 2007
Humanitarian Intervention has been a touchy topic in the world politics arena ever since the term was coined. N. Wheeler explores this topic in a wonderfully organised and objective manner. Looking into intervention in the 1970s, and the response of the world and mainly the United Nations Wheeler puts forward and interesting and easy to understand view of both the physical and theoretical world of Humanitarian intervention.
Using compelling case studies presented in an immaculate way Wheeler points out the pros and cons of humanitarian intervention, the total lack of understanding or desire to help by certain strong nations in the world, and the legal difficulties in international law and international relations regarding the act of intervening in the business of sovereign states.
The book is ideal for first year students of international relations, helping them to understand the theoretical and legal aspect of a very big issue within the field. However it is also helpful to more experienced readers as a point of references and a well structured point of view.
I would recommend this book very highly to anyone who is interested in the subject matter.


A challenge to the norm, 14 May 2004
The subject of humanitarian intervention, and whether it has become a legitimate practice amongst the society of states, has been one of the defining debates in international relations in the 1990's. Dr Wheeler's book on this incredibly complex moral question is of the very highest calibre in terms of its scope and definition. One of its key strengths as a text lies in its suitability for both those who are new to the subject matter, especially in its discussion of the case studies, and for the more experienced reader in terms of the theoretical basis of Wheeler's position on how one can judge the success or otherwise of humanitarian intervention.
The book's overall objective is to trace the development of humanitarian intervention over the last thirty years. The case studies include interventions in the 1970's by India, Vietnam and Tanzania, all of which are extremely well presented and well structured. Whilst it is difficult to argue that these cases constituted what we would now term "humanitarian intervention", their inclusion in this book is very important as they mirror many of the concerns felt in the 1990's about the dilemma of pursuing humanitarian justice, whilst preserving the balance of global order, a key debate in not only humanitarian intervention, but in international relations as a whole.

The 1990's case studies are undoubtedly the core strength of the text, and are extremely well presented. The cases featured include the Iraq "no-Fly Zones", the U.S intervention in Somalia, the Rwandan Genocide, and the related cases of Bosnia and Kosovo. Presented in chronological order, they chart the history of action and inaction of the international community to incidents of humanitarian emergency over the course of the 1990's. As with the 70's cases, all the key facts and events are covered here, and are easily accessible to both the expert and the novice.

Perhaps the most intriguing and compelling aspect of the book is Wheeler's theoretical position on the subject of what constitutes a legitimate and successful humanitarian intervention. Anyone who has read the theories of humanitarian intervention expressed by other experts in the field will find this book makes a convincing and challenging contribution to existing debate. Wheeler somewhat controversially challenges many other thinkers on this subject by focussing on the outcome of an intervention as opposed to the motives of the interveners. Whilst Wheeler makes a good case for this approach in terms of his use of the case studies, his overall normative theoretical position taken from English School thinkers such as R. J Vincent and Headley Bull, demands by its very nature a central focus on the motives of the actor, and leaves a paradox at the heart of his theory which he never really manages to overcome. However, it is fair to say that this paradox is one that makes the book even more compelling, as one gets the feeling that if Wheeler could only have pulled off this trick, he would have created a theory of the most robust kind.

Overall, Saving Strangers is a must -read book on a subject close to the consciences of all engaged in both the study and practice of international affairs, and is a valuable contribution to our understanding of how the international community has dealt with humanitarian disaster, and how it should do so in the future.

spell binding and unmissable, 19 Jan 2008
Gus Gilbert, had free access to all the defendents during the entire Nuremberg trials. He spent much time in discussion with all the Nazi defendents, Goering, Ribbentrop, Hess, Kaltenbrunner, Rosenberg, Frank, Frick, Sauckel, Speer, Schacht, Funk, Papen, Neurath, Schirach, Seyss-Inquart, Streicher, Keitel, Jodl, Doenitz and Fritzsche. Robert Ley had committed suicide in his cell prior to the trial.

The book is a record of the defendents thoughts and a diary of conversations and observations. It is facinationing. Author Gilbert was a psychologist by profession and also acted as a sympathetic ear and councillor for some of the defendents and in some cases really gained their confidence. I have a very big problem with this because he also used this information to suggest lines of attack to the prosecution in some prisoners cases, in particular Goering.

This said, you begin to feel that you knew the prisoners as individuals by the end of the book, which is all credit to the author. Also very interesting is the continued power struggle between some of the defendents even in captivity.

It is a very interesting exercise to compare your own verdicts with that of the judges. One suspects that justice had a little bit of a flexible quality about it.

It is very difficult, if not impossible, to put the book down once you have started reading it.

Second Hand info from a First Hand Source, 24 Jul 2005
International Law interests me and I have read alot of books on warcrimes and criminals, and had read Gilbert before. So I was looking forward to this book. But it's extreemely disappointing. There is nothing new here, and Gilbert's comments on the prisoners offer nothing new. The book feels like a brag, an account of how one american came face to face with the monsters, if Gilbert was not there I would have said that this was just another atempt at postering like the dreadful Nurmberg Tv series.
The only good parts of this books are the direct quotes from the prisoners, even then one can not help thinking that they have been carefully chosen and quoted to serve the authors end.

Good but should have been better., 03 Feb 2005
I agree with the New York based reviewer below. The introduction of the psychologist's own opinions into conversations with the defendants and into descriptions of events in the text does spoil this book somewhat. The omission of coverage of a number of the defence cases 'for brevity' is very annoying.

Another quibble is that the account presented is strongly biased towards coverage of conversations with Goering, Schact, Von Shirach, Ribbentrop, Frank and Speer - whether this is because the others (e.g. Frick, Funk, Kaltenbrunner) refused contact with Gilbert, coverage was simply omitted or if they were not approached at all is not made at all clear. Finally, I would also agree with the sentiment expressing a desire for more (some!!) coverage of the scientific psychological examination of the defendants.

This is, however, a very engaging account of the trial and the personalities of some of its protagonists, which is, by definition, unique. Those seeking a thorough description of the history of the trial, the legal issues, geopolitical wrangling and the prosecution characters will be better served with the excellent 'The Nuremberg Trials' by Ann and John Tusa. That said, this book really should not be overlooked, as it is an excellent read.

Unique, in its own kind. I wouldn't miss it., 15 Feb 2001
I would recommend this book as it views the trial and above all the defendants from a perspective which no other book can possibly offer. I think it important for future reader that they are aware that this is hardly a complete account of the trial itself. Other books (The Nuremberg Trial, by Ann and John Tusa for example) achieve this well enough. This book brings you into the cells and lets you hear what the defendants thought about the whole situation, until you become familiar with their different personalities. I would recommend reading some other book before this, to gain better knowledge of the trial, but definitely I would not miss this one. It'd be like reading a book first, and then having a chance to meet the actors.

AN EXCELLENT ACCOUNT FROM THE MAN WHO WAS THERE, 05 Apr 1999
Gustav Gilbert gives a brilliant account of isstay at Nuremberg for the duration of the infamous trial. He exposes the men on trial not only as monsters but as humans. An account like no other as he remains steadfast to his work until the end when other such as Gen Kelley have left to return home and publish their own accounts. Gilbert allows us full access to these men as they realize what has happened and that they have no escape from their fate. He shows his own compassion for the condemed as he pays visits to their families to give them hop as well as get information vital to his book.

Chilling in its banality - a surprising primary source, 04 Jan 2008
The most frightening thing about these interviews is that they expose how utterly banal the major players in Nazi Germany during World War II actually were. This series of interviews, conducted with defendants and witnesses during the Nuremberg Trials and recorded faithfully by Leon Goldensohn, make for compelling reading. But the difficulty is - you don't know quite why you so want to continue. Perhaps you are looking for a hint of the larger-than-life monster in each character? Perhaps you are hoping for remorse, acceptance of responsibility, truth? But you don't find it in these words. What you find is a picture of fear, inhumanity in many cases, weakness, bombast and a birds-eye view tainted by some very different personalities.

A valuable first hand account for any students of Twentieth Century History.

A "Must" For Immigration Lawyers, 20 Dec 2002
Everything you needed to know about immigration and asylum but were afraid to ask! Is there an immigration lawyer in the country who doesn't own this book? If so, shame on you. This is a "no frills" compendium of UK immigration and asylum statutes, together with very useful appendices on all issues of human rights.

The only downside? The reason it gets only 4 stars? We could do with some footnotes!

A useful resource bringing together all relevant statutes., 04 Nov 2001
This is a logically laid out book, presenting all the relevant statutes in chronological order, including items such as The British Nationality Act and The Entry Through Ireland Order. Consequently it is not a "hand" book as such but a useful, one-stop resource. In particular, it has amended the 1971 Act in the light of recent legislation and the alterations are clearly marked.

Dry and a little tedious..., 21 Oct 2008
I read this book, nay STUDIED this book in preparation for a University essay this year.

There are interesting facts and opinions but on the whole I found it very dry and a little hard going. If you want a nice, short introduction to the subject on appeasement then Frank McDonough's book is much easier to get to grips with. If you want a similar length book then John Charmley's is probably a better bet...

Can't say I agree with the other reviewer about Bush and Blair's war - a cmplete mistake and he is very naive if he thinks Saddam needed to be dealt with in comparison with many other 20th/21st century leaders! Oh yes - they don't have any oil - that would be the reason...

Alternate title, 09 Feb 2008
Well researched re-appraisal.For a contemporary viw see Lord Simon's autobiography. My suggested alternate title gives,in my opinion,the flavour of Parker--400 Good Reasons To support Bush and Blair's Foreign Policy

Good narrative on the development of the Geneva Convention, 11 Mar 2007
Angela Bennett has produced a very readable account of the history of the Geneva Convention, from the human devastation at the Battle of Solferino that drove Henry Dunant to do something, through the dynamics and politics within the Geneva Committee and the dedication and efforts of Henry Dunant and others to bring nations into agreement, and on to the Geneva Convention the world has today. Intertwined with all this is the development of the international Red Cross and Red Crescent movement.

The author gives the reader a lively insight into the strident efforts of and the challenges faced by Henry Dunant, Gustave Moynier, members of the Geneva Committee, and numerous others around the world to relieve the human tragedy of conflict. Following on from the history, she gives an overview of the situation today for the Geneva Convention, especially the complexities of implementing international humanitarian law to the situations of modern warfare and terrorism; highly topical is her account of the violation of the Convention by the USA over Guantanamo Bay.

This is not a dry, academic work, and the author has injected her own comment and views to bring the work to life. A recommended read for anyone interested in an introduction to the development of international humanitarian law and the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.


Highly informative cross between a history & a travelogue, 26 May 2002
Given that Beckett writes for the Guardian, fans of Pinochet & Thatcher may not enjoy its tone. I haven't been able to put it down. Beckett describes the long term links between the UK & Chile & draws out the parallels in the politics & economics of the two countries. My 2 favourites are the consequences of rail privatisation & the truckers' strikes. Beckett demonstrates quite persuasively that Pinochet's monetarism was a blueprint for Thatcherism and that he was no benign dictator. The chapter entitled 'National Stadium' is distressing.
I could have done with a chronology as he moves back & forth across the centuries quite a bit.