Michael Brendan Dougherty on My Father Left Me Ireland

In 'Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging', Sebastian Junger delves into the human desire for community and belonging. Drawing from history, psychology, and anthropology, Junger examines why many individuals, including combat veterans, often feel a stronger sense of belonging in tribal or wartime environments than in modern society. He argues that the lack of community in affluent societies can lead to feelings of isolation and depression, while disasters and wars can paradoxically bring people together and foster a sense of unity. The book challenges the notion that modern society is superior to tribal societies, highlighting the benefits of egalitarianism and community found in the latter. Junger also discusses how the absence of these communal bonds can affect veterans returning from war and suggests that societal changes could help reintegrate them and improve overall societal well-being.

My Father Left Me Ireland is a poignant memoir that explores Michael Brendan Dougherty's complex relationship with his Irish heritage and his absent father. Raised by his mother in New Jersey, Dougherty grapples with the absence of his father and the cultural identity he inherited. The book delves into themes of identity, family, and the search for a sense of home, reflecting on both personal and national levels.