Vietnam Inc.

[Book Description]

Vietnam Inc., published in 1971, quickly garnered widespread attention and is hailed as a classic in war photography and documentary reporting. Author Philip Jones Griffiths, drawing from years of firsthand experience, ventured deep into the Vietnam war zones to capture the suffering inflicted on the people and the societal collapse caused by the conflict. His lens exposes the brutality and bloodshed of war while authentically portraying the resilience and everyday life of rural Vietnam. The images strongly criticize the U.S. military actions and imperialism, unveiling the power dynamics behind the war. The book had a profound impact on American society at the time and played a key role in shaping public opinion, becoming a crucial cultural catalyst that prompted the U.S. to reconsider the war and ultimately contributed to its end.

Within the photographs, Griffiths shows deep empathy for Vietnamese civilians and understanding toward American soldiers on the battlefield, especially the young men forced into combat. His portrayal of the "enemy" is not simplistic but reveals that the true culprits of war often reside far from the battlefield in decision-making centers. Through shocking imagery and profound narration, he highlights how modern warfare strips away humanity and manipulates life, challenging viewers’ perceptions of “justice” and “enemy.” Vietnam Inc. is not just a war photo collection but a historical testimony confronting institutional violence and the complexities of human nature.

This new edition features a foreword by renowned linguist and political thinker Noam Chomsky, further elucidating the book’s significance within historical and contemporary contexts. This classic work once again speaks with a powerful voice, provoking reflection on war, truth, and humanitarian concern.


[Details]

Authors: Noam Chomsky, Philip Jones Griffiths
Publisher: Phaidon Press
Publication Year: 2006
Dimensions: 28 × 20 cm
Binding: Paperback
Pages: 224 pages