Violence Workers

In "Violence Workers," author Martha Knisely Huggins delves into the chilling realities of state-sponsored violence in Brazil. Drawing from in-depth interviews with 23 Brazilian policemen—14 of whom directly participated in torture and murder during the military regime from 1964 to 1985—this compelling study explores the psychological transformation of ordinary individuals into agents of brutality. Published in 2002, this 314-page paperback offers a poignant examination of themes such as police brutality, political atrocities, and civil rights within the broader context of political oppression. Huggins’ work is a significant contribution to the fields of political science and social anthropology, providing necessary insights into the impact of systemic violence on society. Ideal for those interested in understanding the dynamics of power, control, and the human capacity for cruelty, "Violence Workers" is a thought-provoking read that captures the complexities of collective psychology in periods of political turmoil.