Political functions of genocide comparisons

Political comparisons involving the Holocaust are variously oriented towards revising the past, defining the present or changing the future. Examples are discussed of comparisons used to deny or exculpate those responsible for the Holocaust and other genocides, to influence contemporary behaviour, and to mobilise states and public opinion to help refugees. Concludes by considering the ideological and preventive ("utopian") functions of comparison and social scientists' responsibility to serve the truth.