Edward W. Said: Not so lost reflections On Lost Causes such as the one-state solution

Abstract

The article examines the enduring relevance of Edward Said's perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, juxtaposing contemporary challenges with Said's visionary advocacy for a one-state solution. The analysis delves into the complexities of the evolving Middle East dynamics, emphasising the need to reconsider alternative frameworks. Central to our analysis is Said's intellectual ethos, which champions the role of secular intellectuals and profoundly influences his democratic values, his defence of a binational state, and his staunch support for academic freedom. Said's legacy serves as a guiding beacon, stressing the moral imperative to challenge entrenched power structures and advocate for truth. The article explores Said's arguments for a binational state rooted in democratic principles and universal values, arguing that despite scepticism and political marginalisation, his vision offers a compelling pathway toward reconciliation and peace, transcending conventional paradigms and amplifying marginalised voices. This approach highlights how Said's commitment to democracy and intellectual freedom shapes his support for causes other believe to be hopeless and continues to inspire contemporary discourse.